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Sustainable Living Shaped by Concrete Geometry and Reflective Skylights

Sustainable Living Shaped by Concrete Geometry and Reflective Skylights
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Concrete forms intersect with reflective skylights to facilitate energy efficiency and natural light, creating a sustainable residential solution in a desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Concrete structures are designed to provide optimal thermal mass for climate regulation.
02
Reflective skylights enhance daylighting while minimizing heat gain in living spaces.
03
The circular layout promotes natural airflow, improving ventilation throughout the home.
04
Integrated solar modules harness renewable energy efficiently in a hot environment.
05
Distinctive ribbon windows are strategically placed for controlled light penetration.

### Overview

Located in a desert environment, “Circle in the Sand” explores innovative living solutions through the reimagining of spherical structures. The design aims to create a cohesive environment that integrates private living spaces with communal areas, responding effectively to the challenges posed by its arid context. This architectural endeavor emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and cultural sensitivity while challenging conventional residential layouts.

### Spatial Configuration

The project features a dualistic framework comprising two modular components: the Private Module and the Services Module. The Private Module includes personal spaces such as bedrooms and suites, providing an intimate setting for residents. In contrast, the Services Module serves as a communal hub, incorporating open areas like dining rooms and kitchens that encourage interaction and social engagement. The circular layout enhances the spatial experience by optimizing natural light and airflow, critical for maintaining comfort in the hot desert climate. Furthermore, the design incorporates positive and negative spaces, enriching the overall atmosphere through the interplay of light and shadow.

### Materiality and Environmental Response

Material selections demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and resilience suitable for extreme heat. Concrete provides structural durability and thermal mass, while reflective skylights and ribbon windows optimize daylighting and minimize heat gain. Aluminum is employed for its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, enhancing the building’s longevity. Eco-friendly coatings further contribute to energy efficiency. The design also integrates solar modules to harness renewable energy, and strategically placed green spaces enhance air quality and offer residents natural environments. These combined elements create an eco-sensitive envelope that aligns aesthetic aspirations with functional requirements, ultimately defining the project's unique architectural identity.

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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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