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Natural Sand Masonry and Mangrove Wood Integrate Seamlessly in Sustainable Desert Residence

Natural Sand Masonry and Mangrove Wood Integrate Seamlessly in Sustainable Desert Residence
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Utilizing local sand masonry and pressed mangrove wood, the residence harmoniously combines sustainable materials with passive cooling techniques to create a comfortable family home in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates local sand masonry for thermal efficiency.
02
Utilizes pressed mangrove wood for structural and aesthetic elements.
03
Features a passive cooling system through a central glass chimney.
04
Incorporates a waste water reservoir for garden irrigation.
05
Designed with modularity in mind for future expansion.

### Overview
The OASIS House, situated within a desert landscape, embodies a design approach that prioritizes contemporary living while respecting the local environment and cultural context. The intent is to create a habitat that emphasizes sustainability and functionality, allowing residents to engage with nature through well-considered outdoor spaces and natural ventilation systems.

### Spatial Configuration and Organization
The residence is organized into two primary blocks connected by a glass corridor that optimizes airflow and natural light. The ground floor features main living areas, including the living room, kitchen, and direct access to a private garden, ensuring a continuous visual connection with nature. The first floor comprises private quarters, designed for privacy while remaining close to communal spaces. This arrangement fosters both personal and communal living, accommodating the varying dynamics of family life.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The construction employs locally sourced materials, including masonry blocks made from desert sand, which contribute to the structure’s thermal mass. Final plaster, also from desert sand, complements this approach. Decorative elements include pressed boards of mangrove wood, featuring laser-cut patterns that provide shading while enhancing interior aesthetics. Solar panels are integrated to support energy needs, while extensive glass facades maximize natural light, enhancing the sense of openness. Additionally, water management systems allow for the recycling of wastewater for garden irrigation, further supporting the sustainable landscape design.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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