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Rammed Earth and Wind Catchers Harmonize in Sustainable Family Living Spaces

Rammed Earth and Wind Catchers Harmonize in Sustainable Family Living Spaces
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Utilizing rammed earth and traditional wind catchers, the design creates a climate-responsive family residence that emphasizes sustainable living while fostering communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind catchers to enhance natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for thermal mass and sustainability.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for communal family interaction.
04
Integrates Al Mashrabiah screens for privacy while allowing natural light.
05
Modular layout allows for future expansions and adaptability.

## Overview

The project "From Past to Future" is a residential design located within the Emirate, characterized by its integration of traditional Emirati elements and contemporary sustainable practices. The design aims to create an environment conducive to familial interaction, promoting physical activity and communal well-being, while responding to the unique climatic conditions of the region. By drawing upon the wisdom of historical architectural strategies, the project emphasizes cultural relevance alongside modern living requirements.

## Spatial and Environmental Considerations

### Courtyard and Ventilation Strategies
A key feature of the design is the central courtyard, which serves as a communal space that encourages social interaction while providing protection from the harsh climate. This area is enhanced by carefully selected greenery that contributes to natural cooling. Additionally, wind catchers (Badgirs) are incorporated to harness the region's natural wind currents, facilitating passive ventilation and improving thermal comfort. The inclusion of a solar chimney further enhances air circulation through solar energy utilization.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project utilizes rammed earth as a primary construction material, offering effective thermal insulation and reflecting a commitment to local geology and resource use. This choice aligns with sustainable architectural practices. Other materials include Al Areesh (palm leaves) for solar screens, glass panels for transparency and natural light, and local timber to create warmth and texture in interior spaces. Each material is selected not only for its durability but also for its role in enhancing energy efficiency and fostering a connection to the local environment.

## Layout and User Experience

### Spatial Organization
The layout is carefully structured to ensure a fluid transition between private and communal areas. The ground level consists of essential communal living spaces and the central courtyard, while upper floors are designated for private bedrooms and family areas. A staircase block promotes vertical connectivity, facilitating movement throughout the residence and encouraging a physically active lifestyle.

### Active Living Features
The design incorporates features that promote an active lifestyle, including a swimming pool, a rock-climbing wall, and a surrounding running track. These elements are intended to engage residents in physical activities, supporting overall health and well-being. Additionally, the modular design allows for future expansion, accommodating the evolving needs of families while ensuring sustainable resource usage. The integration of native landscaping enhances ecological practices, promotes biodiversity, and contributes to the creation of pleasant microclimates around the residence.

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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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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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