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Passive Cooling Through Wind Towers and Rammed Earth in a Modern Family Residence

Passive Cooling Through Wind Towers and Rammed Earth in a Modern Family Residence
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Incorporating wind towers and rammed earth construction, this modern residence achieves effective passive cooling while fostering a sense of community through its thoughtfully designed shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind towers to enhance natural cooling throughout the interior.
02
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for superior thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features an interconnected layout designed to foster communal living among residents.
04
Employs breeze blocks for both structural integrity and artistic light modulation.
05
Integrates photovoltaic systems seamlessly into the design for energy efficiency.

# Analytical Report on Villa Nasim

## Overview

Villa Nasim is situated in Dubai, an area characterized by its historical significance and contemporary urbanization. This residential design seeks to address the needs of modern occupants while integrating elements of traditional architecture. The intent is to foster a living environment that balances communal interaction with personal privacy, reflecting the dynamics of contemporary life within a culturally rich context.

## Spatial Configuration

The villa's spatial organization emphasizes a thoughtful distribution of zones dedicated to various functions, including communal gathering, relaxation, and gardening. The ground floor is designed with an open plan that enhances natural light flow, creating an interconnected environment that promotes social interaction. Private areas are strategically positioned alongside courtyards and terraces, ensuring both accessibility and intimacy. The first floor includes private sleeping quarters that provide a retreat-like atmosphere while maintaining visual links to the external landscape.

## Environmental Adaptation

The design incorporates passive cooling techniques that align with sustainable architectural practices. Features such as wind towers have been integrated to capture and direct natural breezes throughout the residence, thereby reducing dependency on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, surrounding landscaping not only enhances visual appeal but also contributes to temperature regulation, fostering a microclimate that supports comfortable living conditions.

## Materiality and Aesthetic Considerations

The selection of materials reflects both sustainability and local craftsmanship. Key materials include breeze blocks for enhanced ventilation, textured render for tactile engagement, and rammed earth for thermal regulation. The villa also employs a timber grid system, sustainably sourced, to support structural integrity. A distinct aesthetic is achieved through the use of traditional Arabic motifs and modern design principles, featuring arches, intricate latticework, and ample fenestration. This thoughtful combination allows Villa Nasim to resonate with its cultural identity while offering contemporary living comforts.

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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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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
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