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Movable Wall Systems Enhancing Flexibility in Contemporary Emirati Living with Sustainable Materials

Movable Wall Systems Enhancing Flexibility in Contemporary Emirati Living with Sustainable Materials
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Utilizing movable wall systems and sustainable materials, the design cultivates adaptable living spaces that reflect contemporary Emirati culture in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes movable wall systems for adaptable space management.
02
Incorporates sustainable materials including locally sourced wood and terracotta.
03
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural ventilation and light.
04
Designed to reflect cultural heritage while supporting modern living needs.
05
Employs climate-responsive elements like shading devices and wind catchers.

**Overview**

Al Maskan is located within the UAE, where it presents a contemporary interpretation of modern Emirati living. The intent of the design is to harmonize traditional Emirati heritage with contemporary architectural methods, providing an adaptable environment that caters to the dynamic needs of its inhabitants. This project is rooted in cultural values while integrating innovative solutions that enhance the living experience.

**Flexible Spatial Strategy**

The spatial layout emphasizes a careful arrangement of private, semi-public, and public zones, ensuring a balance between personal privacy and communal interaction. The ground floor features essential social areas including a living room, dining area, and kitchen, arranged around a central courtyard with a pool that serves as a natural gathering space. The first floor accommodates private quarters, including adaptable bedrooms equipped with movable wall systems for customizable living configurations. This layout reflects the Emirati ethos of hospitality and emphasizes the importance of both family privacy and social connectivity.

**Material Selection and Environmental Integration**

The materials chosen for Al Maskan underscore the project's commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance. Concrete serves as the primary structural material for its durability, while glass elements enhance transparency and foster a connection between interior spaces and the exterior environment. Wood is used for shading and detailing, providing warmth that resonates with cultural identity. The use of terracotta tiles for roofing offers traditional character alongside thermal insulation properties. Additionally, the incorporation of courtyards, swimming pools, and native landscaping—such as date palms and sansevieria trifasciata—creates relaxing outdoor environments that not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to ecological sustainability. These design elements work collectively to achieve energy efficiency, ensuring that Al Maskan is a responsible and innovative addition to contemporary Emirati architecture.

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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
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