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Sclereified Palm Bark Structures in Sustainable Residential Development

Sclereified Palm Bark Structures in Sustainable Residential Development
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Utilizing sclereified palm bark for structural integrity, this residential development integrates communal gardens and flexible living spaces, addressing modern family needs while emphasizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes sclereified palm bark for structural elements, enhancing thermal performance.
02
Modular layout allows for vertical and horizontal expansion as family needs change.
03
Incorporates wind towers for natural ventilation and temperature regulation.
04
Features communal gardens designed to promote social interaction and biodiversity.
05
Emphasizes local craftsmanship with materials sourced from the surrounding region.

## Overview

Located in a region steeped in cultural heritage, the project draws inspiration from traditional Arabic house designs while addressing contemporary residential needs. It focuses on integrating sustainable practices and promoting communal living, reflecting a vision that honors its cultural context while meeting future housing demands.

## Spatial Design and Flexibility

The spatial organization emphasizes adaptability to accommodate diverse family structures over time. The layout comprises distinct zones, including private areas such as bedrooms that ensure seclusion, and communal zones that foster social interaction, including living rooms and gardens. This modular approach allows for future expansions, either vertically or horizontally, thereby encouraging community collaboration and interaction among neighbors.

### Material Selection

Materials chosen for the project highlight both aesthetic and functional objectives. The primary building block is a sustainable brick, inspired by the bark of palm trees, which provides thermal efficiency and visual appeal. Complementary materials include:
- **Palm Brick**: This brick, made from "sclereified" palm bark, enhances structural performance.
- **Sandstone**: Known for its heat-dissipating properties, it complements the local climate.
- **Reinforced Concrete**: Used alongside the Palm Brick for stability.
- **Glass**: Incorporated in openings and partitions to optimize natural light and spatial perception.
- **Natural Finishes**: Selected to suit the arid environment and enhance insulation.

This focus on local materials supports the project's sustainability goals by reducing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency.

## Technological Features

The design integrates traditional ecological knowledge with modern innovations to enhance energy efficiency. Key strategies include:
- **Natural Cooling Systems**: Wind towers and shaded facades are employed for passive temperature regulation.
- **Renewable Energy Solutions**: Solar panels and hydro-panels provide sustainable energy and water resources.
- **Microclimate Development**: Gardens and indoor planting areas promote biodiversity and aesthetic enhancement.

These technological components work in tandem with the architectural design, exemplifying a commitment to sustainability while addressing modern residential needs.

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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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