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Electricity-Generating Facade with Vertical Gardens in a Desert Oasis Environment

Author:
Bayan Aburowais
Electricity-Generating Facade with Vertical Gardens in a Desert Oasis Environment
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Electricity-generating windows and vertical gardens characterize a skyscraper inspired by desert oasis themes, integrating resilience and sustainability within a multifunctional space in Dubai’s urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Electricity-generating windows harness sunlight for energy.
02
Vertical gardens enhance biodiversity and air quality.
03
Design inspired by the resilience of palm trees.
04
Located at the entrance of Dubai International Financial Centre.
05
Multifunctional spaces include offices, hotel, and public areas.

The Palm Skyscraper is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This building serves multiple purposes, including office spaces, hotel facilities, and areas for public use. The design reflects a strong emphasis on sustainability and strives to create a connection with the natural world. Inspired by the idea of a desert oasis, the project combines modern living with elements drawn from the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

The design concept centers around the theme of a desert oasis, representing a green area that provides a contrast to the dry surroundings. This notion resonates with Dubai's evolution from a barren desert to a bustling city. The Palm Skyscraper captures this journey by incorporating natural aspects into its architecture, fostering a sense of place that aligns with both the city’s history and its geographical context.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key element in the design of the Palm Skyscraper. Vertical gardens are integrated into the structure, enhancing its visual appeal while also benefiting local flora and improving air quality. The building features windows that generate electricity using innovative liquid coatings, allowing them to harness sunlight for energy. This contributes to the overall energy efficiency of the building and supports a more sustainable approach to urban architecture.

Functional Diversity

The varied functions of the Palm Skyscraper are evident in its design, which merges different spaces for a range of uses. It combines offices, hotel accommodations, and areas for leisure, encouraging interaction among users and visitors. This thoughtful integration makes the skyscraper a vibrant place that caters to the needs of its community while enhancing urban life.

Architectural Integrity

The building reflects the resilient nature of palm trees, known for thriving in tough climates. This design choice emphasizes the qualities of stability and adaptability, which are essential for any structure in Dubai's climate. By drawing on the symbolism of the palm, the architecture not only reinforces its aesthetic appeal but also highlights a commitment to creating a structure that is both functional and responsive to its environment.

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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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