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Natural Brown Mud Blocks and Perforated Screens Define a Community-Focused Courtyard Residence

Natural Brown Mud Blocks and Perforated Screens Define a Community-Focused Courtyard Residence
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Employing natural brown mud blocks and intricate perforated screens, the design integrates communal open spaces to foster social interaction within a sustainable residential framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a central courtyard to enhance airflow and social interaction.
02
Utilizes mud blocks for thermal mass and energy efficiency.
03
Features perforated screens for privacy and passive ventilation.
04
Incorporates community gardens on multiple levels for resident engagement.
05
Employs a flexible structural grid to allow future expansion options.

### Overview

Located within an urban setting, the House of Tribulus integrates contemporary design principles with inspirations drawn from traditional Middle Eastern architecture. The project's intent is to create a functional and visually cohesive living environment that fosters community interaction. Unique elements of the design emphasize sustainability and cultural relevance, positioning the residence as an innovative response to local climatic and social contexts.

### Spatial Strategy

The design adopts the courtyard typology, traditionally prevalent in Middle Eastern homes, which serves as a central element for natural ventilation and promotes a connection between indoors and outdoors. The layout strategically utilizes the site’s orientation to maximize light and airflow, aligning with prevailing northwestern winds. Shading devices are incorporated to mitigate solar gain, optimizing comfort for residents while enhancing energy efficiency.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A carefully selected array of materials underpins the project's commitment to sustainability. Mud blocks are prominently used in the external walls for their thermal mass properties, contributing to cooler interiors. Concrete, plaster, and stucco complement the structure's integrity and aesthetic, while polystyrene serves as an effective thermal insulator. Notably, solar panels are integrated into the building’s design, supporting renewable energy generation. Additionally, roof gardens enhance biodiversity and assist in regulating temperature, further reinforcing the residence's sustainable framework. Each material choice reflects local availability and cultural practices, anchoring the design within its contextual landscape.

### Design Features

The House of Tribulus showcases an adaptable structural grid that accommodates future expansion as community needs evolve. The facades incorporate modern interpretations of traditional designs through perforated screens, providing both privacy and ventilation. Roof gardens serve as dual-purpose spaces for recreation and social engagement, reinforcing the project's focus on community living. The energy-efficient design elements, including photovoltaic cells and a passive cooling wind tower, contribute to a net-zero energy framework, exemplifying a holistic approach to sustainable architecture. Cultural motifs, such as the Mugarnas Half-Dome, ensure that the building resonates with local heritage while maintaining a modern identity.

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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
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