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Fluid Tent Structures with Passive Cooling Features and Multi-Level Green Spaces

Fluid Tent Structures with Passive Cooling Features and Multi-Level Green Spaces
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Featuring fluid tent-like structures and an advanced X-Pipe cooling system, this design integrates multi-level gardens and natural materials to create a sustainable family residence in the Dubai landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fluid tent-like structures enhance spatial dynamism and adaptability.
02
An advanced X-Pipe cooling system minimizes energy consumption.
03
Multi-level gardens provide climate-sensitive landscaping and green space.
04
Local natural materials, including charred wood, ensure environmental harmony.
05
Oasis-themed gathering areas promote community interaction and connection.

### Project Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future exemplifies a synthesis of contemporary living with a deep respect for the local cultural and environmental context. The design merges traditional Emirati values with advanced technologies, aiming to create a cohesive living experience that is both functional and contextually relevant. This architectural endeavor recognizes the significant role of family and heritage, emphasizing the need for spaces that foster generational connections.

### Cultural and Spatial Strategy

The design incorporates elements inspired by local traditions and familial structures, presenting a unique interpretation that likens the architecture to clothing—viewing the house as a dress. This metaphor encapsulates themes of movement and comfort, reflecting the fluidity valued in Arab culture. The layout includes dedicated spaces for family members at various life stages, underlining the importance of continuity and heritage.

Soft, organic forms characterize the house, drawing inspiration from the fluidity of sand dunes and the natural desert landscape. Interconnected tent-like structures create visually dynamic spaces, while multi-storey gardens enhance biodiversity and address the challenges posed by the arid environment. Social oases within the layout encourage community interaction, integrating natural elements into the living space.

### Technical Innovations and Materiality

Innovative cooling solutions enhance energy efficiency throughout the design. The application of the X-Pipe rule introduces air jets that cool exterior surfaces using natural wind currents, thus reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. Additionally, a rooftop wind catcher pond serves a dual function of aesthetic enhancement and passive cooling, facilitating a comfortable internal climate through evaporation.

The material selection emphasizes sustainability and local relevance. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while lightweight composite fabrics used in the tent-like structures ensure insulation and visual fluidity. High-performance glass allows for abundant natural light while minimizing heat gain, and the incorporation of natural stone and timber fosters a connection to the surrounding environment, contributing to a warm, inviting interior.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 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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