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Sustainable Living Through Sun-Dried Mud and Natural Palm Fronds in a Versatile Dwelling

Sustainable Living Through Sun-Dried Mud and Natural Palm Fronds in a Versatile Dwelling
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Constructed with sun-dried mud and woven palm fronds, the design utilizes local materials to create a flexible living space that fosters community interaction while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using traditional sun-dried mud, enhancing thermal mass and insulation.
02
Features woven palm fronds for climate control and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates a courtyard garden that promotes community interaction.
04
Utilizes an off-grid system for energy self-sufficiency.
05
Adaptable spaces designed for flexible usage by residents.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the project aims to establish a forward-thinking residential environment that aligns with the city’s 2040 Urban Master Plan. The design prioritizes eco-sustainability while respecting the cultural heritage of the region, focusing on creating innovative living spaces that enhance social connectivity and communal activities.

### Spatial Strategy
The design implements a "free aggregation" concept, allowing for spatial flexibility that fosters interaction among inhabitants. It begins with a singular adaptable space that evolves into clusters of interconnected areas, promoting a porous environment that enhances accessibility and encourages movement within the community. The layout features multiple levels and gardens, with internal gardens and private lounges on the ground floor and basement, designed to accommodate various functions based on residents' needs. A central courtyard garden serves as a social hub, while an oasis garden roof is equipped for vertical farming and efficient water conservation.

### Materiality and Technological Integration
The project employs a combination of traditional materials and modern technology to address both aesthetics and functionality. Sun-dried mud provides thermal mass and insulation, while woven palm fronds contribute to climate control. Structural components utilize lime and cement, and black solar panels are integrated for energy self-sufficiency. Additionally, a strategic off-grid system allows the building to operate independently of conventional power sources, featuring solar energy and rainwater harvesting. Natural ventilation and shading mechanisms are employed to maintain comfortable indoor climates while minimizing energy consumption, creating an efficient living environment that embodies sustainability.

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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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