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Natural Ventilation and Solar Design in Recycled Concrete Living Spaces

Natural Ventilation and Solar Design in Recycled Concrete Living Spaces
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Utilizing recycled concrete and natural ventilation methods, this residential design integrates traditional cultural elements with modern sustainability principles to create functional living spaces that promote community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled concrete blocks for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates windcatchers for natural ventilation throughout the home.
03
Features a dedicated Majlis, reflecting traditional Emirati hospitality.
04
Includes solar panels for energy efficiency tailored to regional climate.
05
Employs modular design for adaptability to evolving family needs.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, this residential development aims to integrate contemporary design with traditional Emirati values while prioritizing sustainable practices. The architectural approach is characterized by modularity and flexibility, ensuring that living spaces can adapt to the specific cultural and environmental requirements of the region.

### Spatial Organization and Community Engagement

The design comprises two levels, strategically organized to enhance functionality and connectivity with outdoor environments. The ground floor contains an open-plan living area, dining space, and kitchen, promoting an effective flow between the interior and exterior. Essential to the layout is the inclusion of a **Majlis**, which fosters social interaction and aligns with local hospitality customs. The separation of family and guest entrances reinforces privacy, reflecting cultural norms while still encouraging community engagement. Natural landscaping, balconies, and an outdoor pool contribute to a lifestyle that emphasizes relaxation and socialization.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Initiatives

A commitment to sustainability is evident in the choice of materials and construction techniques. The structure employs **recycled concrete** for its insulated modular walls, which enhance thermal efficiency. **Solar panels** are integrated to harness renewable energy, providing significant energy savings. The innovative use of **windcatchers** allows for natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, adaptable window coverings accommodate seasonal changes in thermal comfort. The exterior is finished with **wood composite cladding**, which balances aesthetic appeal with durability, highlighting a harmonious relationship between the home and its surrounding environment.

Various landscaping materials and native plant species are incorporated to promote biodiversity within an urban setting, further underscoring the project's environmental responsibility. The design sets a precedent for residential architecture that respects cultural heritage while addressing the pressing need for sustainable living solutions.

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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
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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