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Sustainable Home with Photovoltaics and Natural Wood Elements Embracing Cultural Heritage

Sustainable Home with Photovoltaics and Natural Wood Elements Embracing Cultural Heritage
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Emphasizing cultural heritage through the use of reclaimed wood and integrated photovoltaic systems, the villa redefines sustainable living while providing a comfortable family residence within an arid climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employed reclaimed wood to enhance sustainability and connect with local heritage.
02
Incorporated photovoltaic panels to reduce energy consumption and enhance environmental efficiency.
03
Utilized a bent A-frame design to optimize airflow and natural light within the living spaces.
04
Integrated water features within the landscape to create a cooling microclimate around the villa.
05
Implemented innovative shading devices that enhance comfort while maintaining privacy and aesthetic appeal.

### Overview

Located in the metropolitan area of Dubai, the Ghaf Oasis Villa integrates architectural design with cultural significance and sustainable practices. The design draws from local vernacular elements, reflecting the region's identity while addressing environmental context. Emphasizing comfort and privacy, the villa's conceptual framework draws inspiration from the Ghaf tree and the historical reliance on natural resources, manifesting in features that enhance user experience within the desert climate.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The layout of the villa is organized into clearly defined zones, balancing private and communal spaces to promote family living. Key areas such as the garage, living spaces, and utility sections are organized to facilitate optimal flow and functionality. Innovative shading screens contribute to comfort while enhancing aesthetics, allowing natural light to filter through spaces like the lobby and living areas. The orientation of the villa is designed to maximize privacy, aligning with the cultural expectations prevalent in the region.

### Material Choices and Sustainability

The selection of materials is characterized by durability and sustainability, including reinforced concrete for structural integrity, large glass openings for natural light, and reclaimed wood which connects to cultural heritage. Photovoltaic panels are integrated to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint. The use of prefabricated concrete blocks allows for modular expansion, ensuring adaptability for future needs while maintaining longevity in the face of climate challenges. Light color applications contribute to thermal performance by reflecting heat, further enhancing the villa's sustainability profile.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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