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Crescent-Shaped Residence Featuring Photovoltaic Panels and Sustainable Prefabricated Steel Elements

Crescent-Shaped Residence Featuring Photovoltaic Panels and Sustainable Prefabricated Steel Elements
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The crescent-shaped structure integrates prefabricated steel and photovoltaic panels, optimizing energy efficiency while providing a modern residential environment designed for family living in the heart of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crescent shape optimizes solar exposure and natural airflow.
02
Integration of a rotational mechanism enhances energy efficiency.
03
Construction utilizes prefabricated steel for rapid assembly.
04
Rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management.
05
Large glass facades create seamless connections with the landscape.

## Location and Design Intent

The Moon House is situated in Dubai, an environment characterized by unique climatic challenges and urban dynamics. This residential design integrates contemporary architectural principles with sustainability and cultural significance. The project's framework emphasizes energy efficiency, material innovation, and spatial organization, making it relevant to both its geographical context and broader discussions on sustainable living.

## Form and Cultural Context

### Architectural Expression

The structure is defined by a crescent shape, which serves both aesthetic and functional roles. This form optimizes solar absorption and natural ventilation, essential in a hot climate. The curvature fosters an organic connection with the surrounding vegetation and urban skyline, creating a cohesive visual narrative within its context.

### Cultural Significance

The crescent motif is deeply embedded in Arab culture, symbolizing renewal and fertility. This connection enhances the design's significance, integrating cultural narratives into the residential experience.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

### Key Materials

The construction employs prefabricated steel components, facilitating rapid assembly and disassembly. White photovoltaic panels adorn the roof, capturing solar energy and supporting the project's sustainability goals. The incorporation of glass and wood in the facades fosters an indoor-outdoor relationship while allowing natural light to permeate the living spaces, enhancing thermal comfort with wooden finishes that add warmth.

### Sustainable Strategies

The residence features a rotational mechanism, enabling it to adjust its orientation to maximize solar energy utilization throughout the day. A lithium-ion battery system efficiently stores energy, contributing to a self-sufficient power supply. Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated for irrigation and cooling purposes, aimed at minimizing the building's ecological impact. Additionally, passive ventilation strategies are employed to optimize airflow, further enhancing occupant comfort while reducing cooling energy demands.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

### Interior Layout

The internal organization prioritizes functionality and intimacy, with central communal spaces designed to facilitate interactions among residents. Distinct zoning for private sleeping quarters ensures individual privacy while maintaining overall community cohesion. The ground floor plan encompasses approximately 283.15 m², efficiently allocating areas for living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and utility spaces.

### Connectivity and Natural Light

Large windows and an open layout enhance spatial continuity and natural lighting, providing panoramic views of both the lush landscape and Dubai’s urban environment. This design approach fosters an atmosphere of openness and integration with the external surroundings, contributing significantly to the overall user experience.

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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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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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