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Galvanized Steel and Rainwater Harvesting in Micro Homes Along the Border

Galvanized Steel and Rainwater Harvesting in Micro Homes Along the Border
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Nestled against a steel border wall, these micro homes utilize galvanized steel and incorporate rainwater harvesting systems to create sustainable living spaces that foster community in a unique cultural context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes galvanized steel as a primary structural element to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity and improve air quality in urban settings.
03
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems designed specifically for arid climates to optimize water use.
04
Features a spatial layout that prioritizes flexible living spaces, accommodating various household configurations.
05
Emphasizes cultural connectivity by embedding local materials and design principles that reflect the community's heritage.

### Project Overview

The architectural proposal for a micro-home development located adjacent to a border aims to address the complex social, political, and cultural dynamics of border areas. It seeks to redefine living spaces in relation to their environments by integrating innovative architectural solutions and sustainable practices, thereby creating a unique residential experience that reflects the distinctive context of border living.

### Architectural Configuration and Sustainability Measures

The micro-homes are organized in a linear arrangement that aligns with a 10-meter high steel border wall. This configuration establishes a spatial dialogue, positioning the residences as facilitators of cultural interaction, rather than as mere physical separations. The design features sloped roofs for effective rainwater harvesting, addressing sustainability while also minimizing heat gain typically associated with flat roofing. Passive ventilation is a key feature, with large openings and strategically placed flaps enhancing airflow, which reduces reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

The selected materials reinforce durability and efficiency; galvanized steel beams and prefabricated metal framing ensure rapid construction and resilience to adverse weather conditions. Interior gypsum wall finishes provide a modern aesthetic, while the Kingspan roof system enhances insulation and energy performance. The landscape incorporates native desert flora, promoting water conservation and ecological stability while also enhancing visual privacy for residents.

### Cultural Context and Architectural Identity

The design emphasizes cultural sensitivity by promoting cross-border interactions and fostering community dialogue. Architectural elements blend modern design with indigenous influences, reflecting the geographical context and inviting discourse on the implications of borders. By strategically incorporating the border wall into the development, the project addresses housing needs while potentially reducing construction costs, thereby enhancing economic viability in a challenging location.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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