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Corten Steel Facade with Integrated Courtyard Providing Natural Ventilation in a Modern Family Residence

Corten Steel Facade with Integrated Courtyard Providing Natural Ventilation in a Modern Family Residence
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Distinctively incorporating a corten steel facade and a central courtyard, the design prioritizes natural ventilation while seamlessly accommodating modern family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel panels adapt to sunlight and provide privacy through intricate patterns.
02
The central courtyard enhances airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
03
Autoclaved aerated concrete used for walls offers superior thermal insulation.
04
Sustainably sourced wood cladding contributes to the project’s low maintenance needs.
05
Innovative gray water recycling systems support sustainable water management.

### Overview

Located in a climate-sensitive environment, The Patio House exemplifies modern residential design through its integration of cultural context and sustainable practices. The architectural intent focuses on creating a modular structure that prioritizes the well-being and comfort of its inhabitants, featuring a central open patio that fosters a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design recognizes the importance of natural ventilation and communal interaction, facilitating family gatherings and everyday living.

### Spatial Organization

The layout of The Patio House is strategically divided into distinct zones to optimize functionality and comfort. The left and right wings house private living areas, allowing for a balance between communal and individual spaces while maximizing natural light and shading. Central to the configuration is the open patio, which serves as a green space essential for cooling and air circulation, providing a critical buffer against external temperature fluctuations. The master plan incorporates flexible floor plans with movable walls, enabling residents to adapt spaces for various activities—transitioning from intimate gatherings to larger communal events.

### Material Choices

Material selection for The Patio House emphasizes sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Corten steel panels form the modular façade, offering lightweight and dynamic responses to sunlight while enhancing privacy through artistic perforations. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) provides exceptional thermal insulation and fire resistance, contributing to energy efficiency. Sustainably sourced wood cladding enhances durability and reduces maintenance, while granite and limestone stone cladding introduces natural elements that align with environmental responsiveness. The inclusion of photovoltaic panels supports energy autonomy, and a gray water recycling system promotes resource efficiency in water use.

These design features collectively ensure that The Patio House stands as an adaptable living space, balancing the needs of its residents with a commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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