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Terraced Gardens with Water Features Enhanced by Textured Masonry and Natural Wood Elements in a Sustainable Community Setting

Author:
Louis Dams
Terraced Gardens with Water Features Enhanced by Textured Masonry and Natural Wood Elements in a Sustainable Community Setting
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Incorporating terraced gardens and water features within a framework of textured masonry and natural wood, the design creates a cohesive residential community that emphasizes sustainability and communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Design merges modern architecture with Persian garden traditions.
02
39 apartments balance private living and community spaces.
03
Terraced gardens with orange trees enhance biodiversity.
04
Water channels create a microclimate and facilitate irrigation.
05
180 solar panels support sustainability and renewable energy.

The architectural project "Paridaida" represents a modern residential complex that harmonizes contemporary design with historical influences derived from Persian garden traditions. Designed to accommodate 39 apartments, the project balances individual living spaces with communal areas, effectively fostering a sense of community while providing personal retreats. The integration of natural elements and sustainable practices serves as a framework for the overall design philosophy.

Water features characterize the landscape, emulating the structure of traditional Persian gardens, which were designed to evoke tranquility and provide environmental benefits. The architecture’s rectangular massing maximizes natural light and views while featuring cantilevered balconies that enhance the building's visual depth.

Unique Integration of Cultural Elements

The most distinctive aspect of "Paridaida" lies in its ability to merge cultural heritage with modern architectural principles. The design incorporates a series of terraced gardens planted with orange trees, which not only serve aesthetic purposes but also contribute to biodiversity and environmental sustainability. Water channels meander through the landscaped areas, creating a refreshing microclimate characteristic of Persian gardens, while also addressing the need for effective irrigation.

The architect’s choice of materials is equally significant. The use of textured masonry and smooth concrete establishes a dialogue between traditional and contemporary elements, while wooden lamellas introduce warmth and character to the façade. The careful selection of materials, including marble, Portuguese tile, and stone, ensures that each component plays a role in both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the project.

Functional Layout and Sustainable Features

The layout of the apartments reflects a commitment to social engagement and individual comfort. Each apartment, ranging from 45 to 60 square meters, is strategically positioned to face the central garden, promoting interaction among residents. Common areas—such as dining rooms, libraries, and meeting rooms—are designed for flexibility, encouraging community activities while respecting personal privacy.

Sustainability is a core aspect of the architectural vision. The project integrates 180 solar panels, showcasing a commitment to renewable energy sources and an effort to reduce environmental impact. This focus extends to the overall landscaping strategy, where water-saving techniques have been applied to manage irrigation efficiently.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and practical solutions employed in "Paridaida."

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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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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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