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Perforated Concrete Facade and Native Landscaping Enhance a Sustainable Urban Oasis

Perforated Concrete Facade and Native Landscaping Enhance a Sustainable Urban Oasis
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The integration of a perforated concrete facade and xeriscaped native landscaping creates a sustainable oasis that facilitates communal living in an arid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of perforated concrete panels allows for controlled natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
02
A central courtyard design fosters communal interaction while providing a private outdoor area.
03
Sustainable landscaping incorporates native plant species to reduce water usage in an arid climate.
04
Cross-laminated timber is utilized in structural elements, enhancing both stability and aesthetic quality.
05
The project's orientation optimizes solar gain and passive cooling, minimizing energy consumption.

**Overview**

Located in a hypothetical context in Dubai, the design of this residential concept addresses the environmental challenges and cultural nuances inherent to the region. Aimed at creating a balanced living environment, the project incorporates modern architectural principles while emphasizing sustainability and user comfort. The project framework promotes individual expression alongside communal interaction to meet the varying needs of future residents.

**Spatial Organization and User Experience**

The ground floor is structured around a central courtyard that functions as a communal oasis, encouraging socialization and relaxation. Key features include a garden pond that enhances tranquility and open-plan dining and living areas that facilitate a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The upper levels offer balconies and terraces aimed at fostering intimate connections with nature, while a spiral staircase not only serves as a visual focal point but also maintains an open flow throughout the home's levels.

**Material Consideration and Environmental Approach**

The building employs a robust structural framework of concrete and steel, tailored to withstand the desert climate. The facade combines architectural concrete and perforated panels that provide both aesthetic appeal and functionality, filtering natural light while ensuring privacy. Interior spaces utilize a smooth plaster finish and large glass windows to enhance the flow of natural light and maintain views of landscaped areas.

Sustainability is a core focus, evident through features such as solar water heating systems and greywater recycling, which are pivotal in reducing the environmental footprint. The thoughtful integration of local flora through xeriscaping reinforces water conservation efforts while creating a lush oasis ambiance amidst the arid surroundings. Additionally, the adaptable design allows for future modifications to accommodate family growth, aligning with the dynamic nature of urban development in Dubai.

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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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