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Subterranean Dwelling with Thermal Mass Concrete and Biophilic Indoor Gardens

Subterranean Dwelling with Thermal Mass Concrete and Biophilic Indoor Gardens
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Constructed with thermal mass concrete and designed with indoor gardens, this subterranean dwelling redefines sustainable living by creating a comfortable environment that fosters community interaction in an arid landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with thermal mass concrete to enhance energy efficiency and regulate internal temperatures.
02
Integrates biophilic gardens throughout to improve air quality and promote well-being.
03
Features a central community patio that encourages social interaction among residents.
04
Utilizes adjustable natural light through strategically placed skylights and ventilation systems.
05
Incorporates provisions for future expansion, allowing for adaptive living spaces as needs change.

### Overview

The Oasis is designed as a subterranean dwelling that addresses the challenges of climate change in arid environments. Situated in a dry landscape, the project prioritizes comfort, communal living, and eco-friendliness, providing a refuge that integrates with its surroundings. The architecture emphasizes resilience and adaptation, reflecting a need for sustainable living solutions in increasingly harsh conditions.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout of The Oasis is centered around a communal patio, fostering interaction and accessibility while providing private areas for rest and reflection. The configuration includes interconnected bedrooms, a family area, an office, and service spaces, all organized to enhance the flow among them. This design approach cultivates a sense of community while allowing for personal privacy and comfort.

### Material Strategy and Sustainability

The material selection within The Oasis focuses on sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity and provides thermal mass for regulating temperature. Incorporating both fixed and movable glass enhances natural light and visual connectivity, supporting the well-being of residents while maintaining privacy. Aluminum elements offer adjustable privacy and assist in ventilation, complemented by biophilic features that integrate indoor gardens for improved air quality. The strategic use of these materials not only bolsters durability against external conditions but also promotes a balanced and healthy living environment.

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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.

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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
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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