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Passive Cooling Winds and Clay Bricks in a Contemporary Emirati Villa

Passive Cooling Winds and Clay Bricks in a Contemporary Emirati Villa
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Utilizing passive cooling techniques alongside traditional clay bricks, the villa reinterprets Emirati architectural heritage to create a sustainable family residence that integrates natural elements with contemporary living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates passive cooling through traditional Barjeel windcatchers.
02
Constructed with locally sourced clay bricks for optimal thermal performance.
03
Features panoramic glass facades to enhance natural light and views.
04
Includes adaptable spaces for future expansion based on family needs.
05
Integrates outdoor leisure areas, including a gazebo near the swimming pool.

### Project Overview
This modern villa is situated in New Dubai and draws inspiration from traditional Emirati architectural elements. The design aims to integrate these cultural motifs within a contemporary framework, creating a functional living space that reflects the local context while addressing modern lifestyle needs.

### Design Principles and Spatial Organization
The architectural approach emphasizes comfort and functionality through thoughtful spatial arrangements. The villa's layout promotes both communal interaction and privacy, with the ground floor dedicated to shared areas such as the living and dining rooms, as well as essential service spaces. The first floor focuses on private quarters, including a master suite and additional bedrooms, while the second floor offers flexible space for an office or extra bedrooms, accommodating shifting household dynamics.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A significant aspect of the villa is its commitment to sustainable design through the careful selection of materials. Clay bricks provide thermal insulation and durability, while extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and panoramic views. Wooden elements introduce warmth and contrast to the contemporary design, while structural steel ensures stability. The integration of water features not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to passive cooling strategies.

### Passive Cooling and Energy Efficiency
The villa employs a comprehensive passive cooling system, prominently featuring the *Barjeel*, which facilitates natural airflow and temperature regulation. Automated gates and air filtration systems are incorporated to enhance indoor air quality, while an evaporative water system effectively mitigates thermal discomfort during hotter months. This careful integration of passive solutions works alongside conventional air conditioning, optimizing energy use and occupant comfort.

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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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