Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Perforated Mashrabiya Screens and Cooling Brick Systems Define Sustainable Communal Living in Dubai

Perforated Mashrabiya Screens and Cooling Brick Systems Define Sustainable Communal Living in Dubai
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Perforated Mashrabiya screens and a system of cooling bricks create a sustainable environment that promotes communal living while respecting traditional Emirati culture and contemporary design principles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated Mashrabiya screens enhance airflow while maintaining privacy.
02
Cooling brick systems minimize energy use for temperature control.
03
The layout encourages communal gatherings while preserving individual privacy.
04
Laminated marble and artificial timber create durable and aesthetic interiors.
05
Integration of rainwater harvesting supports sustainable water management.

### Architectural Design Report: The Frame

#### Overview
Located in Dubai, UAE, the design of The Frame is a response to the social, cultural, and environmental context of the area. The project seeks to reinterpret communal living spaces by integrating contemporary design principles with traditional Emirati and Islamic values. This architectural approach emphasizes a balance between privacy and social interaction, specifically catering to the needs of Emirati nationals while fostering a spirit of hospitality and community engagement.

#### Materiality and Sustainability
The design employs a diverse array of materials that support both aesthetics and functionality. Concrete forms the structural backbone, providing durability, while perforated mashrabiya screens enhance airflow and privacy. The use of steel frames and windows contributes to structural integrity, complemented by cooling brick systems that assist in temperature regulation. Internally, materials such as laminated marble and artificial timber elevate the visual quality without sacrificing resilience.

Sustainability features are integrated throughout the design. Solar panels harness energy to reduce reliance on traditional power sources, while rainwater harvesting systems promote efficient water usage. The project also employs screening techniques to improve air quality and minimize energy-intensive cooling methods. Collectively, these elements reflect a commitment to eco-friendly practices within the framework of contemporary living.

#### Spatial Planning and User Experience
The spatial configuration prioritizes efficient circulation and natural ventilation, with careful consideration given to sun orientation. This strategic planning mitigates heat exposure while enhancing the overall living experience. The layout includes five bedrooms, expansive communal areas, and dedicated spaces for social gatherings, particularly for women during majlis events. Large gardens and outdoor spaces are designed to encourage interaction and relaxation, allowing for a harmonious integration between the interior and exterior environments. The project brings together elements of greenery and calming landscapes, thereby creating a comforting and inviting atmosphere for its occupants.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy