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Curvilinear Forms with Natural Stone and Solar Integration in a Private Community Space

Curvilinear Forms with Natural Stone and Solar Integration in a Private Community Space
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Incorporating curvilinear forms and local stone, this community space leverages solar integration and private courtyards to enhance sustainability and user comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integration of locally sourced stone enhances thermal performance and supports regional aesthetics.
02
Curvilinear forms optimize natural airflow and reduce cooling costs in a hot climate.
03
Private courtyards promote social interaction while ensuring resident privacy.
04
Solar panels are strategically positioned to maximize energy efficiency throughout the year.
05
Water features are incorporated to improve microclimate and enhance outdoor living spaces.

## Overview

The Urban Mashrabiya project is located in Dubai, addressing the unique challenges posed by the local climate and urban context. The design draws inspiration from traditional Islamic architecture, particularly the mashrabiya, a feature known for its capacity to provide ventilation, shade, and privacy. The intent is to create a residential framework that reflects cultural values while integrating modern sustainability practices, thereby establishing a functional and aesthetically relevant living environment.

## Spatial Organization and Community Integration

The layout employs a grid-based organization reminiscent of traditional urban patterns in Dubai, with a focus on both private and communal spaces. Each residential unit is equipped with private courtyards, designed to offer seclusion while enhancing natural ventilation through shaded architectural elements. Community amenities such as shared gardens and recreational areas aim to foster social interaction among residents, promoting a sense of community within a dense urban setting. The incorporation of curvilinear forms throughout the design is intended to facilitate airflow, enhancing comfort and livability.

## Material Selection and Environmental Responsibility

A deliberate selection of materials is central to the project, with locally sourced stone providing durability and natural insulation in response to the climate. Glass elements enhance natural lighting and create a visual connection between indoor and outdoor environments, while wood adds warmth and tactile quality to interior spaces. The project incorporates sustainable materials, including solar panels for energy generation and advanced water management systems. Passive cooling techniques, rainwater harvesting, and solar energy use underscore a commitment to reducing environmental impact, thereby ensuring a resilient response to the region's climatic conditions.

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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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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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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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