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Perforated Facades and Adaptive Roofs in a Sustainable Residential Community

Perforated Facades and Adaptive Roofs in a Sustainable Residential Community
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Utilizing perforated facades and adaptive roofs for natural ventilation, the design creates a sustainable residential community that prioritizes communal living while respecting the local architectural vernacular.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated facade enhances natural ventilation while maintaining privacy.
02
Adaptive roofs improve indoor climate control through dynamic airflow.
03
Utilizes local clay bricks for thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
04
Central courtyards foster community interaction and social cohesion.
05
Water features integrated for passive cooling and aesthetic appeal.

### Overview

The architectural design project is situated in an area rich with cultural heritage, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and adaptable living arrangements. It is inspired by traditional domestic architecture from the Arab region, particularly reflecting the distinctive characteristics of the United Arab Emirates where urban life coexists with desert landscapes. The design intends to connect historical architectural significance with contemporary functional requirements, addressing environmental considerations in the process.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design emphasizes a cohesive relationship between the built environment and the natural setting, integrating traditional housing typologies with modern amenities. Key elements include a well-structured spatial layout that facilitates intentional flow and usability across different areas. Central courtyards serve as community anchors, promoting social interactions and providing serene spaces for both relaxation and gathering. The project prioritizes functional versatility, allowing spaces to adapt to various uses over time, such as accommodating both formal and informal events, thereby reflecting the dynamic needs of families and communities.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project's sustainability goals. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability while local clay bricks enhance thermal insulation, benefitting internal temperature regulation. Large glass surfaces are utilized to maximize natural light and maintain a visual connection with the external environment, which is essential in a desert context. Additionally, the incorporation of wood adds warmth and texture within the spaces. Outdoor water features, including reflection pools and fountains, enhance the microclimate and introduce an element of tranquility, embodying the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

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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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