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Regenerated Concrete and Local Wood Create Sustainable Family Living in a Connected Community

Regenerated Concrete and Local Wood Create Sustainable Family Living in a Connected Community
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Utilizing recycled concrete and sustainably sourced local wood, the design fosters community interaction and environmental stewardship while providing adaptable family living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled concrete for structural elements, reducing environmental impact.
02
Incorporates locally sourced wood to support regional sustainability practices.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to improve energy efficiency through natural ventilation.
04
Integrates a greywater recycling system for irrigation, promoting water conservation.
05
Creates semi-public spaces that enhance community engagement and family interaction.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, this architectural project addresses the needs of a family within the context of a SMART Terrace Housing Complex. It aims to enhance community integration while upholding principles of environmental sustainability and innovative design. The residence is designed not only as a personal living space but also as a component of a larger neighborhood, fostering connections among residents through the incorporation of shared spaces.

### Spatial Configuration and Connectivity

The layout is organized into distinct functional zones, designed to support various family activities while ensuring privacy and social interaction. The key spatial areas include a Family Zone for intimate gatherings, a Guest Zone for accommodating visitors, an Outdoor Zone that encourages engagement with the natural environment, and a Service Zone dedicated to practical elements like kitchens and utility spaces.

The master plan incorporates pedestrian pathways that connect to the broader urban context, emphasizing accessibility and active transport. It highlights areas within a 10 to 30-minute walking radius, strategically promoting interaction between the newly developed housing and existing neighborhoods, in alignment with urban growth strategies in Dubai.

### Sustainability and Materiality

A commitment to environmental sustainability is central to the project’s material choices and construction practices. Sustainable materials, such as recycled concrete and locally sourced mangrove wood, are utilized to minimize ecological impact. Additionally, the project employs hydrophobic mortar and local marine bio-materials, enhancing durability and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.

Construction techniques prioritize efficiency through modular prefabrication and the use of a pop-up production unit that minimizes waste and carbon emissions. Solar panels are incorporated to harness renewable energy, supporting the household's long-term ecological goals. Passive cooling strategies, including the integration of sun screens and greywater recycling systems, further augment the project’s sustainability initiatives.

### Architectural Aesthetics

The architectural style reflects a modern interpretation of traditional Emirati design, characterized by soft curves, arched windows, and a harmonious color palette that aligns with the natural sandstone tones prevalent in the region. The integration of landscaping, featuring palm trees and shrubs, enhances visual appeal and contributes to a cohesive environment that respects local heritage.

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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
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Eligibility Open to all
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