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Saline Irrigation System Inhabiting Green Terracotta Ecology Through Vertical Farming

Saline Irrigation System Inhabiting Green Terracotta Ecology Through Vertical Farming
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Utilizing a saline irrigation system and vertical farming techniques within a terracotta-clad structure, this residence integrates sustainable practices to facilitate efficient food production in a challenging desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes saline irrigation to enhance local agricultural production within a desert environment.
02
Features a terracotta facade to improve energy efficiency through natural thermal regulation.
03
Integrates automated vertical farming systems for year-round crop cultivation.
04
Employs a hexagonal facade design to optimize passive cooling and ventilation.
05
Incorporates lightweight plastic tubing for effective water management across the structure.

## Analytical Report: SEAWater(g)House Project

### Overview

SEAWater(g)House is located in Dubai and functions as both a residential space and a self-sustaining greenhouse. The design integrates advanced technologies with sustainable practices, emphasizing the efficient utilization of local resources to support food production, energy generation, and water management. This project aims to align natural systems with the built environment to create a mutually beneficial relationship between the structure and its surroundings.

### Spatial Organization and Environmental Integration

The architectural concept employs the Sea Water Green House (SWGH) system, utilizing saline water for agricultural purposes while addressing the arid climate of Dubai. The layout is strategically organized into distinct climatic zones, optimizing natural light and airflow throughout the living and gardening areas. Fluid, curving geometries characterize the overall form, deviating from traditional rectangular designs to enhance natural ventilation and light distribution, echoing the local desert and coastal landscapes.

### Sustainable Materiality and Construction Techniques

Sustainability is a core principle reflected in the selection of materials. Light plastics are utilized for covering, facilitating airflow and humidity control, while terra cotta elements provide evaporative cooling and enhance air circulation. The structure incorporates wrapped plastic tubing for temperature regulation, automated vertical farming systems constructed from lightweight materials, and fabric shading elements that reduce solar heat gain. These innovations collectively contribute to the building's energy efficiency and ecological footprint, reinforcing its self-sustaining objectives.

Special features of SEAWater(g)House include energy generation mechanisms like photovoltaic panels and a comprehensive water-recycling system, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Automated greenhouse technologies enable efficient year-round crop cultivation, while climate-responsive systems adjust internal conditions based on real-time data, allowing for enhanced user comfort and environmental adaptability.

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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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