Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Natural Cooling Through Ventilation Towers and Sustainable Materials in a Desert Dwelling

Author:
Tatiana Valerini
Natural Cooling Through Ventilation Towers and Sustainable Materials in a Desert Dwelling

Project in-detail

Utilizing a vertical ventilation tower and locally sourced sandstone, this residence effectively addresses the region's climate while incorporating a Majlis to foster cultural interaction within a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a vertical ventilation tower for efficient passive cooling.
02
Incorporates a Majlis to enhance cultural social interaction.
03
Constructed with local sandstone and adobe for climate responsiveness.
04
Features aluminum muxarabis panels for effective sun shading and privacy.
05
Integrates water features and landscaping to harmonize with the environment.

The project, *The House of the Future*, represents a residential architectural design situated in the United Arab Emirates. It focuses on addressing the unique climatic conditions of the region while incorporating cultural elements and promoting sustainable living. The design is structured around three main functional blocks: Circulation, Habitation, and Recreation, each serving distinct purposes that collectively enhance the living experience.

The **Circulation Block** serves as the transitional space connecting the various zones of the house. It features a Majlis, which is integral to Emirati culture, providing a communal area for social interaction. This space promotes cultural engagement and dialogue among inhabitants and visitors.

The **Habitation Block** includes multiple suites that prioritize accessibility and comfort. A noteworthy element within this block is the vertical ventilation tower, designed to facilitate natural airflow, thereby enhancing indoor thermal comfort. This design responds effectively to the challenges of the region’s climate.

The **Recreation Block** is designed to encourage relaxation and leisure activities. It is connected to the Circulation Block with a unique jail wall system, which allows for improved airflow. The indoor environment is complemented by the use of transparent polycarbonate panels, permitting ample natural light while ensuring energy efficiency.

Unique Design Approaches

The project demonstrates an innovative approach to architecture through its integration of sustainable materials and techniques. By employing locally sourced **sandstone, adobe blocks**, and **wood**, the design supports ecological practices and complements the environmental context. The use of **aluminum muxarabis panels** enhances shading and privacy while promoting airflow, a crucial consideration in hot climates.

Furthermore, the implementation of a funnel-shaped ventilation system exemplifies passive cooling strategies, reducing reliance on mechanical systems and contributing to energy efficiency. This architectural choice represents a shift towards mindful design that answers specific regional needs while remaining sensitive to cultural traditions.

Architectural Cohesion

Architectural cohesion is achieved through the thoughtful arrangement of spaces. The connection between blocks facilitates an intuitive flow, ensuring that privacy and communal areas are well-defined yet interconnected. The landscaping integrates water features and greenery seamlessly with the built environment, enhancing the overall aesthetic while contributing to environmental sustainability.

For an in-depth exploration of this project and its design nuances, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. Engaging with these elements will provide further insight into the sophisticated architectural ideas and intentions that underpin *The House of the Future*.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy