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Perforated Screens and Sustainable Solar Panels Defining Modern Family Living in Dubai

Perforated Screens and Sustainable Solar Panels Defining Modern Family Living in Dubai
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Built with perforated screens and enhanced by monocrystalline solar panels, the design prioritizes sustainability and cultural integration, offering a modern living space tailored for extended family dynamics in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated screens enhance natural ventilation and privacy while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
02
Monocrystalline solar panels integrated into the terrace optimize energy efficiency.
03
The unique dual-ground layout accommodates both communal and private family spaces.
04
Natural landscaping complements the architecture, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Flexible design allows for future expansions to meet evolving family needs.

## Overview of the Twin Ground House
Located in Dubai, the Twin Ground House is designed for modern Emirati families, reflecting both contemporary aesthetics and cultural elements. The residential layout promotes a blend of indoor and outdoor living, emphasizing spatial duality to meet the socio-economic needs of the region. Central to the design is the philosophy of "Taking from Earth and Giving Back to Earth," which reinforces a commitment to sustainability and community engagement within the context of Emirati traditions.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The site plan features a thoughtful arrangement of Lower and Upper Grounds, aimed at fostering communal living while honoring cultural norms. Ground coverage is strategically maintained at 30-35%, allowing for ample outdoor spaces that encourage family interaction. The architectural form transitions from the Lower Ground, serving as a communal hub with an open courtyard and various living zones, to the Upper Ground, designated for private family activities, enhanced by landscaping and ornamental features.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The materials used in the Twin Ground House marry traditional and contemporary design principles. Structural integrity is provided by concrete, while glazed tiles enhance aesthetic appeal at the entrance. Traditional Islamic geometry is reflected in the use of Jali screens, which promote ventilation and privacy simultaneously. Sustainability is a key focus, with monocrystalline solar panels integrated into the terrace, alongside innovative strategies such as natural ventilation, daylight optimization, and a rainwater harvesting system, all contributing to the project's energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

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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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