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Date Palm Ash and Natural Light Shape a Harmonious Dwelling in Dubai

Date Palm Ash and Natural Light Shape a Harmonious Dwelling in Dubai
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Utilizing date palm ash as a sustainable binder and integrating natural light through strategic design, this dwelling in Dubai fosters harmony while serving as a multi-functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes date palm ash as an eco-friendly construction material.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to enhance ventilation and social interaction.
03
Design follows the golden ratio for balanced proportions and aesthetics.
04
Features integrated water elements that contribute to ambiance and sustainability.
05
Employs natural light strategies through large openings and thoughtful orientation.

### Home of Harmony and Exchangesum

Located in Dubai, the design of the Home of Harmony and Exchangesum promotes connectivity among individuals, their environment, and their interactions. This project responds to contemporary social needs by prioritizing harmony between occupants and their surroundings, facilitating relationships through strategic architectural elements. The central courtyard designed as a sanctuary enables moments of introspection, while functional zones—including living areas, multi-function spaces, and private quarters—are organized to balance privacy and communal interaction.

#### Spatial Configuration
The dwelling's layout is characterized by a central courtyard surrounded by various key spaces, such as the living and dining areas, a multi-function room, and a library, each arranged to encourage social engagement while preserving individual privacy. Bedrooms are positioned on the upper floor to enhance secluded living while remaining visually connected to communal areas. This arrangement reflects the dualities inherent in family living, facilitating a harmonious coexistence of collective and private experiences.

#### Sustainable Materiality
An innovative approach to material selection is evident in the use of date palm ash as a sustainable alternative to conventional construction materials. This alkali-activated binder, combined with alumina and silica, bolsters the structural integrity of the building while significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional methods. Recycled aggregates further contribute to the project's environmentally conscious agenda, emphasizing the use of local resources as a cornerstone of its design philosophy.

#### Distinctive Architectural Features
A designated water feature serves as a key design element, enriching the home's aesthetic and spiritual landscape. The use of the golden ratio in spatial organization enhances the occupants' experience, promoting a sense of order and tranquility. Additionally, the integration of greenery throughout the design fosters a connection with nature, maximizing natural light and creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The structural form incorporates sweeping arches, blending contemporary and timeless elements, while referencing cultural influences and modernist design principles.

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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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