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Natural Stone and Geometric Forms Integrated with Traditional Mashrabiya in Emirati Family Home

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Natural Stone and Geometric Forms Integrated with Traditional Mashrabiya in Emirati Family Home
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Integrating traditional Mashrabiya screens with geometric forms and natural stone, the residence creates a harmonious environment fostering privacy and spaciousness for family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional Mashrabiya screens for natural ventilation and privacy.
02
Utilizes natural stone cladding to enhance durability and aesthetic cohesion.
03
Features a flexible layout that integrates communal and private spaces seamlessly.
04
Includes solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable living.
05
Designed with large glass panels to maximize daylight and outdoor connectivity.

## Overview

Located in the UAE, the residential design project called “Reliability” integrates contemporary architectural practices with traditional Emirati aesthetics. This approach emphasizes the importance of blending modern amenities with the rich cultural context of the region. The design aims to foster a balance between functionality and visual appeal, utilizing a diverse range of materials that honor both modern construction techniques and traditional craftsmanship.

## Design Philosophy and Spatial Organization

The design philosophy focuses on creating an environment that supports family life and entertainment while ensuring privacy. The residence comprises three levels: a ground floor, mezzanine, and first floor, each designed to accommodate a variety of living activities. Key features include the incorporation of Mashrabiya screens for natural ventilation and privacy, alongside dynamic geometric forms that soften the building’s overall appearance. The layout supports interaction and community within the home, with flexible spaces designed for different functions, such as a gym, private offices, and expansive living areas.

## Material Considerations and Sustainability

The material palette comprises natural stone for the exterior, providing durability and an earthy aesthetic, complemented by wood in the Mashrabiya screens and large glass panels for transparency and connectivity to the outdoors. Reinforced concrete serves as the structural foundation, while steel elements enhance the building's strength. The color scheme employs warm tones inspired by the environment, facilitating visual harmony with the surroundings.

Sustainability is a key aspect of the project, featuring solar panels integrated into the roof to harness renewable energy and a 10,000-liter underground water tank for emergency water supply. The design also utilizes natural ventilation strategies, minimizing the need for air conditioning and contributing to energy efficiency within the hot Emirati climate.

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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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