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Horizontal Shading Systems and Porotherm Walls Enhance Energy Efficiency in Dubai Residence

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Horizontal Shading Systems and Porotherm Walls Enhance Energy Efficiency in Dubai Residence
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The integration of porotherm walls and a horizontal shading system allows for effective temperature regulation in a Dubai residence designed for family living, ensuring energy efficiency while responding to the region's harsh climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Porotherm walls provide superior thermal insulation, reducing energy consumption.
02
The horizontal shading system effectively mitigates direct sunlight, enhancing indoor comfort.
03
Open patio design facilitates natural ventilation while connecting interior and exterior spaces.
04
Landscaping integrates local vegetation to improve the microclimate around the residence.
05
The layout strategically separates communal and private areas for functional living spaces.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, UAE, this dwelling uniquely addresses the challenges imposed by the region's extreme seasonal temperature fluctuations. The design aims to enhance environmental sustainability while meeting the residential needs of its occupants. Emphasizing eco-conscious principles, the dwelling integrates innovative strategies to minimize energy consumption and provide comfortable living conditions throughout the year.

### Climate Responsiveness
The building's orientation and layout are strategically designed to optimize natural cross-ventilation and mitigate heat gain. By utilizing the prevailing summer winds from the south and southeast, the design effectively channels cool breezes into the living areas while shielding them from direct sunlight. Open patio spaces serve as transitional areas between indoors and outdoors, further protecting against excessive heat while promoting natural light and ventilation.

### Material Selection and Construction
Material choice is integral to the sustainability focus of the dwelling. The structure employs Porotherm brick for its excellent thermal insulation properties, complemented by gypsum plastering for improved energy efficiency and humidity control. Filler slabs contribute to reduced construction weight and costs, while a horizontal pivot shading system provides essential protection from the sun, minimizing heat gain. Additionally, landscaping elements are incorporated to enhance the aesthetic appeal and improve microclimate conditions around the residence.

### Spatial Organization
The dwelling features a thoughtful layout that fosters both social interaction and private retreat. The ground floor includes a majlis for guests, dining areas, an open kitchen, and a living space, all linked through an open patio that allows for flexible usage. On the first floor, private bedrooms are designed with attached bathrooms, ensuring convenience for family members while maintaining necessary privacy. The effective zoning of shared and private spaces enhances the functionality of the home, allowing for a harmonious family 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
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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