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Rammed Earth Structure Enhanced by Low-E Glazing and Adaptive Solar Shading

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Rammed Earth Structure Enhanced by Low-E Glazing and Adaptive Solar Shading
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Combining rammed earth construction with low-emissivity glazing and adaptive solar shading, this residence offers an efficient and sustainable solution for comfortable living in a challenging desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide superior thermal mass, enhancing indoor climate stability.
02
Low-emissivity glazing minimizes heat gain while maximizing natural light.
03
Adaptive solar shading elements respond to the sun's position throughout the day.
04
The design incorporates recycled materials to reduce environmental impact.
05
Open-concept layouts facilitate flexible use of living spaces for varied activities.

### Project Overview
Located in a desert landscape characterized by arid conditions and dramatic topographies, the design integrates contemporary architecture with sustainable practices. The intent is to create a structure that responds to the environmental context while enhancing aesthetic appeal and environmental performance through the use of natural materials and innovative construction techniques.

### Spatial Strategy
The design employs an organic form that diverges from traditional rectangular layouts, reflecting the fluidity of the surrounding landscape. Open-concept living areas are prioritized, providing flexibility for social gatherings and personal retreats. Maximizing natural light and airflow throughout the interior enhances occupant comfort and aligns with the rhythms of daily life. The layout also includes private spaces, such as bedrooms and offices, to accommodate both communal interaction and individual privacy.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Central to the construction is rammed earth, offering excellent thermal properties and a natural appearance that harmonizes with the desert palette. Recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and metal, are integrated into various design elements to reduce resource consumption. Energy-efficient features such as low-E windows minimize heat transfer while maximizing views and ventilation. Sustainable insulation materials further contribute to maintaining stable indoor conditions. Additionally, solar shading innovations, such as retractable screens and shaded overhangs, protect living areas from direct sunlight, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental sustainability.

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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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