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Palm-Inspired Design Utilizing Prefabricated Construction for Sustainable Living Solutions

Palm-Inspired Design Utilizing Prefabricated Construction for Sustainable Living Solutions
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Utilizing palm materials and prefabricated construction methods, this residence integrates sustainable living solutions with cultural heritage to create a versatile family home in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced palm materials to enhance thermal performance.
02
Incorporates an atmospheric water generation system for sustainable hydration.
03
Features prefabricated components for efficient assembly on-site.
04
Integrates passive cooling strategies through architectural shading elements.
05
Includes adaptable spaces that cater to evolving family needs.

### Overview

The Arish House is situated in a desert environment, drawing on traditional architectural forms from the region, particularly the Arish, a palm-based structure historically found in old Dubai houses. The design aims to create a sustainable and contextually relevant living space that merges contemporary architectural practices with local cultural heritage. It emphasizes a responsive approach to living in an extreme climate, showcasing adaptability to different family structures and emphasizing community integration.

### Spatial Strategy and Adaptability

The project employs a prefabricated modular design that facilitates efficient construction and customization. A key aspect of the design is the incorporation of transitional spaces, which smoothly connect the public and private spheres of the home. This flexibility allows the housing unit to adapt to varying family configurations, from single occupancy to multi-generational living arrangements. Shared garden spaces are also integrated into the design to promote community interaction while supporting private outdoor experiences.

### Sustainable Materiality and Technologies

The material selection for the Arish House prioritizes both sustainability and aesthetics. Key features include:

- **Local Palm Materials**: Used in the Arish screen, these materials reflect traditional building practices while enhancing shading and ventilation.
- **Prefabrication**: Utilizing off-site construction methods minimizes waste and streamlines the building process.
- **Renewable Energy Systems**: A solar panel canopy generates energy for the home, reinforcing the commitment to renewable technologies.
- **Atmospheric Water Generation**: This system captures moisture from the environment, addressing water scarcity in the region.
- **Effective Insulation**: High-quality insulation materials improve thermal performance, reducing energy consumption.

These elements not only honor regional architectural heritage but also respond to contemporary sustainability imperatives, providing a thoughtful framework for modern living in arid climates.

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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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