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Natural Ventilation and Precast Concrete Unite in Sustainable Family Home Design

Natural Ventilation and Precast Concrete Unite in Sustainable Family Home Design
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Utilizing precast concrete and a double-height Majlis, the architectural design seamlessly merges traditional Emirati elements with modern sustainability, serving as a functional family residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes precast concrete for rapid construction and environmental efficiency.
02
Incorporates a double-height Majlis to enhance airflow and social interaction.
03
Features extensive glass openings for maximum natural light and outdoor vistas.
04
Integrates a green box for vegetation, fostering a connection to nature.
05
Employs shading devices to mitigate direct sunlight and improve indoor comfort.

**Location and Context**

Located in Al Barsha South, Dubai, the project is set within a family-oriented community that offers convenient access to urban amenities. Its proximity to significant landmarks, including the Mall of the Emirates and Al Barsha Pond Park, ensures efficient connectivity while promoting an environment suitable for both local residents and expatriates. The design reflects a commitment to integrating the region's climate and cultural heritage with future adaptability.

**Spatial Organization**

The house features a clearly defined spatial strategy divided into three functional zones:

1. **Public Area (Ground Floor)**: Designed for social interaction, this level includes living and dining spaces that foster communal activities.
2. **Family Space (First Floor)**: This floor prioritizes privacy and comfort, containing family lounges and bedrooms.
3. **Quiet Area (Second Floor)**: A dedicated space for individual tasks, such as remote work and relaxation, ensuring a retreat from the communal areas.

The organization enhances the overall functionality, utilizing vertical circulation and communal spaces to maintain a cohesive flow throughout.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

Materials are chosen with emphasis on sustainability and environmental impact.
- **Precast Concrete** facilitates rapid construction while leveraging "green concrete" to lower ecological footprints.
- **Marble** flooring enhances both aesthetic quality and thermal comfort.
- **Metal Structures** provide flexibility in design, enabling modifications to the spatial layout as needed.
- **Wood** is used decoratively to echo traditional architectural forms.
- **Glass** maximizes natural light and connects indoor environments to the outdoors.

These selections contribute to a design ethos that aligns with both local context and sustainable building practices.

**Climate Responsive Design**

The residence incorporates strategies tailored to the arid climate of the UAE:
- **Orientation** positions rooms to capture cooler breezes and minimize heat.
- **Shading Devices** reduce exposure to direct sunlight and enhance indoor comfort through features like operable blinds.
- **Energy Efficiency** is achieved through the integration of solar panels, contributing to renewable energy use.

This climate-responsive approach combines functional living with an emphasis on energy conservation, reflecting broader goals of sustainability.

**Distinctive Features**

Key elements include a **Majlis**, serving as a space for social gatherings and symbolizing Emirati hospitality, characterized by its double-height design that facilitates airflow. The **Green Box** integrates natural elements into the living environment, enhancing the urban setting with greenery. Additionally, the **Iwan** extends living areas outdoors, promoting family interaction and leisure. These features collectively enhance the living experience, fostering community connections while respecting cultural traditions.

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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.

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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