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Passive Cooling Residences with Modular Design for Arid Climates

Passive Cooling Residences with Modular Design for Arid Climates
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Utilizing hollow brick construction and modular design, this sustainable residential initiative captures wind and solar energy to create adaptable living spaces for families in Dubai's arid climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wind tower enhances passive cooling and air circulation.
02
Solar panels provide energy independence for homes.
03
Modular design allows for family needs expansion.
04
Rainwater and greywater harvesting support responsible water management.
05
Hollow bricks promote thermal comfort in exterior walls.

"Where Wind Finds Home" is a comprehensive residential initiative located in Dubai, UAE. It focuses on sustainable living solutions tailored for low-income communities. The design emphasizes environmental responsiveness and energy efficiency, aiming to create a functional living space that interacts dynamically with the local climate. This project serves as a model for future housing developments that prioritize sustainability and community resilience.

Sustainable Integration and Family-Centric Design

This project embodies a commitment to sustainable integration within urban settings. Key features include a wind tower that harnesses natural breezes, allowing for passive cooling and improved air circulation, significantly reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Additionally, solar panels placed strategically on roofs enhance the energy independence of the homes by generating surplus electricity. The project incorporates a modular design approach, providing flexibility for families as their needs evolve, allowing for expansion without extensive reconstruction. Outdoor spaces are integral to the design, fostering interactions with nature and the surrounding community through open-air patios and communal gardens. The arrangement of spaces prioritizes both private and social interactions, creating an environment conducive to family life while inviting community connectivity.

Innovative Climate Adaptation and Resource Management

A distinguishing characteristic here is its methodical approach to climate adaptation. Utilizing local architectural traditions, the design incorporates passive cooling strategies that address the hot, arid climate of Dubai. Features such as solar chimneys enhance natural ventilation, further contributing to the energy efficiency of the homes. The inclusion of rainwater and greywater harvesting systems signifies a commitment to responsible water management, supporting both domestic use and landscaping needs. Materials play a vital role in the project’s sustainability. The use of hollow bricks for external walls promotes thermal comfort, while recycled plastic cladding reduces environmental impact. Internal finishes utilize moisture-resistant gypsum plastering, enhancing durability and aesthetics.

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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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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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