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Rammed Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Centric Spaces in Desert Living

Rammed Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Centric Spaces in Desert Living
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Employing rammed earth and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates community-focused living spaces within the challenging desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide natural thermal mass, reducing energy consumption.
02
Cross-laminated timber enhances structural integrity while allowing flexible space configurations.
03
Community gardens integrate greenery into the living environment, promoting biodiversity.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes shading and natural light throughout the year.
05
Local coral stone is used to tie the building to its geographical context and heritage.

## Context and Location

Located on the outskirts of Dubai, the project is situated within a residential area that reflects the region's cultural nuances. The design approach acknowledges the importance of local traditions while incorporating contemporary architectural solutions. The intent is to harmonize these elements by integrating sustainable practices with modern design, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the built and natural environments.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a selection of sustainable materials that emphasize ecological responsibility and local relevance. Key components include rammed earth walls, which provide natural thermal mass and visually connect the structure to its surroundings. Cross-laminated timber panels offer flexibility in internal spaces while maintaining structural integrity. Local coral stone and wood are incorporated to echo traditional building practices and enhance contextual integration. Large glass elements optimize natural light, facilitating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Incorporation of planting systems within the design aims to improve air quality and foster a connection to nature.

## Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The building's layout features a three-dimensional interplay of internal and external spaces, strategically oriented to balance privacy and communal interaction. The lower level accommodates public gathering areas within an open floor plan, centered around an outdoor space with a real tree, promoting an interaction with nature. The upper level is designed for private use, featuring adaptable spaces that can accommodate changing family needs. The configuration supports natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. The design emphasizes future expandability, optimal airflow, and shaded areas to enhance comfort in the hot desert climate while respecting the cultural context through thoughtful integration of local craftsmanship.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 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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