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Rammed Earth and Wind Tower Integration in a Modern Courtyard Habitat
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Integrating rammed earth construction with a wind tower and traditional Al Mashrabiyah, the design creates a flexible living environment focused on sustainability and cultural resonance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a wind tower design to enhance natural ventilation and cooling.
02
Utilizes rammed earth walls for thermal regulation and sustainability.
03
Features modular and retractable walls for versatile spatial configurations.
04
Incorporates traditional Al Mashrabiyah for privacy and light diffusion.
05
Emphasizes a modern interpretation of the Emirati courtyard for community interaction.

### Overview

The Adaptive Temple is located in Dubai, UAE, and is designed to integrate contemporary architectural principles with traditional Emirati cultural elements. The intent is to create functional spaces that facilitate a dialogue between environmental sustainability and cultural heritage. Its adaptable design accommodates various urban contexts, from residential neighborhoods to high-rise environments, responding to diverse plot sizes and configurations.

### Spatial Organization

Central to the design is the Adapting Courtyard, a modular space that serves as a flexible intermediary between indoor and outdoor areas. This courtyard features retractable walls that allow for dynamic configurations, enhancing privacy and openness according to user requirements. The Iwan, acting as a transition space, links the interior with the surroundings while embodying traditional architectural motifs. Additionally, the wind tower is strategically incorporated to improve natural ventilation, guiding cooler air into the living areas while facilitating the escape of hot air from the courtyard, thereby demonstrating a bioclimatic approach to temperature regulation.

### Material Use and Sustainability

The project employs a variety of sustainable materials that contribute to its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Rammed earth is utilized for its thermal mass, aiding in temperature regulation and minimizing reliance on artificial cooling. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while glass elements optimize natural light without sacrificing thermal comfort. Wood and natural stone are incorporated to enhance the tactile qualities of the interior and exterior spaces, respectively. Collectively, these materials reflect a commitment to sustainable practices, including the integration of solar panels and graywater recycling systems, promoting eco-friendly living within a desert climate.

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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.

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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