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Integration of Recycled Materials with Thermal Blocks in a Desert-Adapted Family Home

Integration of Recycled Materials with Thermal Blocks in a Desert-Adapted Family Home
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Utilizing thermal blocks and recycled materials, this family home seamlessly integrates with the desert landscape while promoting energy efficiency and community-oriented living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermal blocks made from recycled materials for enhanced insulation.
02
Incorporates a rooftop garden for urban agriculture and sustainability.
03
Features expansive glass façades for maximum natural light and connection to the outdoors.
04
Integrates solar power systems designed to support energy independence.
05
Design emphasizes communal living spaces to foster community interaction.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the Dune Project represents an architectural response to the region's desert landscape and urban dynamics. The design is oriented towards ecological sustainability, integrating elements from the natural environment to create a residence that harmonizes with its surroundings. By focusing on a contemporary aesthetic that is functional and energy-efficient, the project aims to provide a model for future residential developments in rapidly urbanizing areas.

## Spatial Organization

The layout of the Dune Project is strategically divided across two primary levels. The ground floor is dedicated to communal and functional spaces, featuring a spacious living and dining area complemented by large glass windows to enhance the connection with the exterior. A well-equipped kitchen integrates smoothly with the dining space, while an adjacent garage provides convenient access. Recreational amenities, such as a swimming pool and relaxation area, are positioned to overlook landscaped gardens, fostering a sense of tranquility.

The first floor prioritizes privacy and wellness, encompassing three bedrooms and a versatile office space that accommodates modern working needs. Wellness features, including a sauna and outdoor terraces, promote health-oriented lifestyles. These design elements are further interconnected through expansive terraces that extend the living space, encouraging family interactions and community engagement.

## Material Selection

The Dune Project makes use of innovative and sustainable materials to support its architectural vision. Recycled wood and plastics form the core insulation framework, enhancing energy efficiency while minimizing construction waste. A solar power system with a capacity of 32 kW enables energy independence, supporting electric vehicle charging and regulating indoor temperatures. Extensive glazing is employed to maximize natural light, creating airy interiors that connect residents with the outdoor environment. Thermal blocks, made from recycled materials, provide essential insulation and expedite construction. These material choices reflect a commitment to modern architectural practices while promoting environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

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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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