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Deciduous Courtyards and Modular Forms in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Author:
Carlo Bughi
Deciduous Courtyards and Modular Forms in a Sustainable Residential Setting
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A central courtyard with a deciduous tree enhances seasonal comfort while modular twin modules crafted with brick slips and zinc provide flexible living spaces in a sustainable residential layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
The arrangement centers on a flexible courtyard that functions as a winter garden.
02
Each module combines a Main and Junction for efficient transport and assembly.
03
The design incorporates green roofing for effective rainwater management.
04
A deciduous tree in the courtyard allows for seasonal climate adaptation.
05
Photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roof to enhance energy efficiency.

The Quad project reveals an innovative approach to housing, designed as a modular courtyard house that maximizes both space and environmental benefits. Comprised of four twin modules arranged around a central courtyard, the layout is effective for both private living and social engagement. The courtyard can serve as an outdoor space that adapts to the seasons, with a deciduous tree providing shade in warmer months and allowing for solar gain during the colder months. This thoughtful integration of nature into the design creates a pleasant living environment.

Core Design Elements
Key areas within the layout include an entrance, living room, study, kitchen, utility space, office, multiple bedrooms, an en-suite, a shower room, and a patio. This widespread distribution of functional areas ensures that the home meets various needs, from relaxation to productivity. The design encourages movement and interaction among family members while providing personal spaces.

Module Configuration
Each module is made up of two components: the Main (M) and the Junction (J). The Junction can be used as an extension of the Main or to connect different modules together. Remarkably, these elements can be transported either together or separately, fitting within standard container sizes. This feature enhances the practicality of the design, making it easier to assemble on-site.

Sustainability and Materiality
The Main module features a three-pitch roof, which offers different options for cladding such as brick slips and zinc. The green roofing system helps manage rainwater and insulate the building. Moreover, the roof is designed to accommodate photovoltaic panels, which can generate energy based on the roof's orientation. These features underscore a commitment to sustainability in residential design.

Cluster Arrangement
The design allows for various configurations, from single modules measuring 19.5 m² to clusters that can reach up to 78 m². Including the footprint of the courtyard, the total area can amount to 98 m². This flexibility supports the creation of dense arrangements while keeping the modules inward-facing. This layout ensures privacy by minimizing exposure to the outside while maximizing natural light.

The irregular shapes of the modules create an engaging relationship with the landscape, allowing the structure to blend with its surroundings. The design promotes an inviting atmosphere, making connections between indoor and outdoor spaces an integral part of the living experience.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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