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Terracotta Privacy Screens and Sustainable Lime Plaster in a Family Dwelling
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Constructed with terracotta privacy screens and Pakka Kali plaster, this family dwelling artfully balances communal and private areas while responding to Dubai's climatic challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Terracotta screens provide functional privacy while enhancing air circulation throughout the home.
02
Pakka Kali plaster improves sustainability and environmental performance through carbon absorption.
03
Integrated courtyards foster natural light and facilitate outdoor connections within family spaces.
04
Salt brick construction acts as a natural humidifier, promoting indoor air quality.
05
The central spine design optimizes circulation flow between communal and private areas.

## Overview

The Screen House is situated in Dubai, addressing the challenges of urban density and the region's harsh desert climate. The design prioritizes privacy and connection among family members, creating a living environment that promotes both tranquility and communal interaction. Through a series of well-defined spaces, including courtyards and a central spine, the residence fosters intimate experiences while respecting personal boundaries.

## Spatial Organization

The spatial configuration of the Screen House utilizes a central spine that serves as a primary circulation route, effectively linking various areas of the dwelling. This design feature enhances the distribution of natural light and ventilation, carefully balancing openness with privacy. The ground floor accommodates communal facilities, such as the living and dining areas, while private quarters are arranged on the first floor, oriented toward the courtyards to maintain visual connectivity with nature. The overall massing strategy is designed to facilitate a flow that mirrors natural pathways, integrating both public and private spaces.

## Material and Environmental Strategy

The choice of materials in the Screen House reflects a commitment to sustainability and cultural context. Elements such as Pakka Kali, a traditional lime plaster, not only contribute to visual appeal but also support environmental goals by sequestering carbon. The terracotta screens, inspired by traditional Arabic air-catching designs, are paired with salt bricks to regulate humidity and improve indoor air quality. Chandan wood adds warmth to the interior, complementing the cooler materials used throughout the structure. The innovative use of these materials enhances the sustainability performance of the residence while paying homage to regional architectural practices.

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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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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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