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Solar Harvesting Residence Featuring Natural Ventilation and Native Landscaping

Solar Harvesting Residence Featuring Natural Ventilation and Native Landscaping
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Constructed with prestressed concrete and integrated solar harvesting systems, the residence emphasizes natural ventilation and native landscaping to create an environmentally responsive family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrated solar harvesting systems capture moisture from humidity for water reuse.
02
A central courtyard features native plants that enhance biodiversity and reduce irrigation needs.
03
Prestressed concrete elements allow for expansive open living spaces without internal columns.
04
Natural ventilation strategies optimize airflow, significantly reducing reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
The design accommodates future expansions while maintaining aesthetic harmony with the original structure.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, the "Well of Desert Stars" residential development integrates contemporary design with traditional Arabian architectural elements. Its intent is to harmonize modern living with the environmental and cultural context of the region, focusing on sustainability and community cohesion. Central to the design is an open courtyard, traditionally significant for providing shade and privacy in the harsh climate, which enhances social interaction and natural ventilation throughout the dwelling.

### Spatial Organization
The ground floor layout facilitates seamless movement within living spaces, all oriented toward the central courtyard that features a tranquil pool, reinforcing the theme of water as a source of life and aesthetic pleasure. Functional areas, including the kitchen and living spaces, are strategically positioned for direct access to this outdoor space, promoting an interconnected living experience. The upper levels are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for future modifications to accommodate changing family needs while preserving the architectural integrity of the original structure.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Materials selected for the project reflect local and sustainable practices. Concrete and steel are utilized for their durability and structural integrity, while prestressed concrete minimizes weight without compromising strength. Infill panels made of lightweight materials enhance insulation, and solar panels are incorporated for energy efficiency and water harvesting. The façade features natural stone and plaster finishes, echoing regional building traditions. Additionally, the design includes advanced strategies for natural ventilation and innovative water management systems, underlining a commitment to environmental responsibility. Native vegetation in the landscaping further supports local biodiversity and improves residents' quality of life.

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The Architect’s 
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Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
The Home of 
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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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