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Reflective Facades and Compact Laminate Panels in a Contemporary Residential Haven

Reflective Facades and Compact Laminate Panels in a Contemporary Residential Haven
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Utilizing compact laminate panels and natural stone travertine, this contemporary residence addresses sustainability through reflective facades and modern cooling strategies, ultimately creating a functional family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes natural stone travertine for thermal regulation and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates solar panels mounted on a reflective roof for energy efficiency.
03
Features compact laminate panels that enhance durability and moisture resistance.
04
Includes traditional windcatcher design elements for enhanced natural ventilation.
05
Employs greywater recycling systems for efficient water management.

### Overview

The HM House project is located in the United Arab Emirates and aims to symbolize cultural unity and innovation through its architectural design. The structure reflects the diverse cultural heritage of the region, featuring a segmented massing form that encapsulates varying influences while accommodating modern living requirements. With a site area of 450 m² and a built area of 300 m², the design integrates both private and communal spaces, responding to the local context as well as contemporary global influences.

### Massing and Materiality

The architectural expression is articulated through segmented forms that delineate both individual and collective identities. These overlapping masses create dynamic visual relationships, enhancing the overall spatial experience. The façade employs heat and moisture-resistant compact laminate panels mounted on a steel framework, ensuring durability. Traditional materials such as natural stone travertine are used to reflect cultural context while promoting sustainability. The interior features light concrete bricks for thermal insulation, with decorative plaster applied through artisanal techniques that reinforce the narrative of cultural heritage.

### Sustainability Strategies

Incorporating both passive and active systems, the design prioritizes sustainability. Solar panels integrated into the roof contribute to energy efficiency, while natural ventilation strategies, inspired by traditional Emirati wind towers, facilitate airflow and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling. Water management systems include a reflective pool for rainwater collection and greywater recycling, significantly enhancing water conservation efforts. The layout encompasses flexible living areas and multi-functional spaces that support diverse household activities while maintaining privacy, resonating with local cultural values on security and community interaction.

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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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