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Rammed Earth Habitat with Lattice Wood Shading in an Arid Environment

Rammed Earth Habitat with Lattice Wood Shading in an Arid Environment
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Utilizing rammed earth construction and innovative lattice wood shading, the habitat effectively addresses the challenges of extreme arid climates while providing sustainable living solutions for its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth for superior thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates lattice wood shading to reduce solar heat gain while allowing light.
03
Features adaptable modular units for future expansion based on resident needs.
04
Employs subterranean living areas to leverage natural cooling from the ground.
05
Integrates native plants in landscaping to support local ecology and water conservation.

## Overview

Located in a desert region, the Desert House exemplifies a contemporary solution to social housing designed specifically for arid climates. Its intent is to address the challenges of extreme temperatures and resource limitations while fostering environmental harmony and community connectivity. The architectural strategy integrates indoor and outdoor living spaces, recognizing the significance of natural light and airflow in enhancing thermal comfort and livability.

## Spatial Configuration and Efficiency

The design promotes efficient circulation and functionality through a well-organized floor plan. Central to the layout is the Majlis, a communal area intended for gatherings and social interaction, complemented by living and dining spaces that optimize views and light. Private quarters, including bedrooms, are positioned to ensure privacy and are strategically designed to benefit from natural ventilation and picturesque landscape views. The inclusion of well-planned service areas, such as the kitchen and bathrooms, maintains a seamless transition between public and private spaces.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability, incorporating elements that enhance thermal performance while minimizing environmental impact. Rammed earth is utilized as a primary structural component, offering both natural insulation and aesthetic appeal. Concrete is employed in foundational and structural contexts, ensuring durability, while lattice wood serves dual purposes as shading devices and visual screens, balancing light entry and privacy. Glass elements facilitate the desired connection between indoor and outdoor environments, enriching the user experience. Sustainable landscaping, featuring native plant species, supports biodiversity and contributes to ecological stability within the site.

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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.

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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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