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Courtyard-Focused Design Featuring Natural Stone and Photovoltaic Integration in Desert Living

Courtyard-Focused Design Featuring Natural Stone and Photovoltaic Integration in Desert Living
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Incorporating photovoltaic systems and natural stone within a biophilic courtyard layout, the design emphasizes climate-responsive living in a sustainable residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a central courtyard to enhance natural ventilation and reduce temperature.
02
Employs a water generation system that converts humidity into usable water.
03
Incorporates modular design elements for adaptability to changing needs.
04
Features a green roof to improve insulation and promote local biodiversity.
05
Integrates solar panels to facilitate energy self-sufficiency.

### Overview
The Oasis House is situated in the arid climate of the United Arab Emirates, drawing inspiration from traditional Middle Eastern architecture, while incorporating contemporary sustainable practices. The design addresses the unique challenges of the desert landscape, focusing on environmental harmony and cultural relevance to create a living space that reflects its surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout is anchored by a series of courtyards, which serve to enhance privacy, facilitate natural ventilation, and promote a connection with nature. These courtyards divide the residence into distinct living areas, allowing for a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor environments. The ground floor features a main entrance that leads to a spacious living area with views of the front courtyard, and a central patio connects various functional spaces, including dining and kitchen areas.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of materials emphasizes durability and energy efficiency. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, while glass is extensively used for windows and doors, maximizing natural light and ventilation. Wood accents, such as pergolas and ceilings, introduce warmth and texture to the design. Additionally, green roofs are incorporated to insulate the building and mitigate heat absorption. Innovative features include photovoltaic panels for solar energy utilization and a water generation system that converts ambient humidity into water, supporting irrigation needs. Careful landscaping not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the property but also mitigates heat, fostering biodiversity in a challenging environment.

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Celebrating Visionary Design: The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026

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Competition organisers

The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026 celebrates visionary unbuilt architectural projects that explore creativity and innovation. Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide, the competition welcomes submissions 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).

With a total prize fund of €100,000, each category winner receives €20,000, alongside student prizes of €5,000 and a €10,000 Best Presentation Award. Winners will also be featured internationally and presented with the Continuum Trophy designed by Germans Ermičs.

Registration runs from 31 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, with submissions due by 20 October 2026 and results announced on 1 December 2026. More information is available at architecturecompetitions.com 

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026

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