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Circular Forms of Cast Concrete and Glass Harmonizing with Desert Landscape for Luxurious Hospitality

Circular Forms of Cast Concrete and Glass Harmonizing with Desert Landscape for Luxurious Hospitality
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The design employs modular circular forms of cast concrete and expansive glass to create a seamless interaction with the desert landscape, offering luxury accommodations that highlight sustainability and regional context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular circular modules enable flexible spatial arrangements tailored to diverse guest experiences.
02
Extensive use of large glass panels maximizes natural light and views of the desert landscape.
03
Constructed with cast concrete for durability and thermal efficiency in the arid climate.
04
Landscaping strategies minimize water usage while enhancing the site’s natural topography.
05
Design incorporates local materials to reflect the cultural heritage of Al Ula.

## Project Overview

Located in Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, the Al Ula Dune Hotel is a modular design that integrates with the region's dramatic rock formations and expansive desert landscape. The intent behind this project is to establish a luxurious accommodation option that prioritizes sustainability and innovation, while enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings.

### Spatial Configurations

The hotel’s design employs a series of interlinked circular modules, effectively addressing diverse functional needs while promoting fluid circulation throughout the facility. This modernist approach is characterized by organic geometries that emulate natural forms, enhancing the guest experience through spaciousness and versatility. Each modular unit is tailored to host various activities, from intimate gatherings to larger events, ensuring flexibility in use.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials is pivotal to both aesthetic cohesion and environmental performance. Cast-in-place concrete provides structural stability and thermal efficiency in the harsh desert climate. Extensive use of tempered glass ensures abundant natural light and unobstructed views, fostering a strong connection to the outdoor environment. Corrosion-resistant metal finishes with earthy tones complement the surrounding landscape and contribute to the project's longevity. Furthermore, the design incorporates sustainable practices such as efficient resource utilization and landscaping that minimizes water consumption, reinforcing the commitment to ecological responsibility.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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