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Embracing Cultural Heritage Through Mud Plaster and Natural Light in Emirati Residential Spaces

Embracing Cultural Heritage Through Mud Plaster and Natural Light in Emirati Residential Spaces
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Mud plaster exteriors, framed by abundant natural light, create a serene environment that enhances family interactions within this Emirati residence designed around a central courtyard.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mud plaster facades enhance thermal performance and reflect traditional craftsmanship.
02
Central courtyard design fosters family gatherings and social interaction.
03
Distinct entrances separate guest areas from private living spaces for enhanced privacy.
04
Strategic landscaping includes fragrant plants, promoting a sensory outdoor experience.
05
Natural light is maximized through extensive glass elements, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

**Project Overview**
Located in the heart of the UAE, the Courtyard of Blessings integrates contemporary architectural design with deep-rooted Emirati cultural heritage. The project aims to promote community engagement, family interaction, and spiritual connection through carefully defined spaces that encourage relationships while honoring traditional customs. Central to the design is a courtyard concept, termed "Sahn-al-barakah," which serves as a tranquil sanctuary that fosters a connection to nature and cultural community interactions.

**Spatial Organization**
The layout spans two floors and encompasses a total area of 247.90 square meters. The ground floor features several key areas, including a Majlis designed for hospitality and a spacious living room that encourages family gatherings. A private courtyard at the heart of the home serves as a serene retreat, surrounded by seasonal flowering plants, while the garden offers an outdoor escape that enhances the residence’s ambiance. The upper floor accommodates a master bedroom and three additional bedrooms, with well-considered terraces providing opportunities for relaxation and views of the community.

**Material Selection**
Materiality is paramount in bridging the home's contemporary aesthetic with its cultural significance. The façade is finished with mud plaster, showcasing traditional Emirati craftsmanship, while wood frames and decorative features add warmth. Large glass installations maximize natural light, contributing to the interior's inviting atmosphere. Concrete ensures structural integrity, and stone is utilized in outdoor pathways, reflecting local geological characteristics. Collectively, these materials not only respect the heritage context but also align with sustainable practices, offering recyclability and energy efficiency.

The layout and material choices underscore the project's commitment to both functionality and cultural symbolism, with separate entrances for the Majlis and private quarters enhancing privacy in accordance with local customs. The adaptable courtyard serves multiple family-related activities, reinforcing its cultural significance. Additionally, the garden includes community seating to promote well-being and enhance social interactions within the private space.

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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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