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Textured Stone Forms Harmonizing with Natural Light in a Desert Habitat
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Utilizing Fibonacci-inspired forms and textured stone to create a seamless connection with the Wadi Rum landscape, the structure serves as a residential space that encourages exploration and reflection amidst a rich cultural narrative.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fibonacci sequences shape the overall form, enhancing harmony with the landscape.
02
Natural stone façade integrates seamlessly with the surrounding geology.
03
Large openings facilitate dynamic light patterns throughout the day.
04
Unique subterranean spaces create a climate-responsive living environment.
05
Textured finishes evoke the desert terrain, enhancing tactile engagement.

## Overview
The "Home of Shadow" is located within the Wadi Rum region, a landscape recognized for its striking geological formations and cultural heritage. The intent of the design is to explore the intersection of narrative and architecture by creating a dwelling that reflects the philosophical themes of coexistence between humans and supernatural elements, as illustrated through the characters of Aylin and Dmain. This project aims to facilitate a dialogue between different realms of existence, represented through both the physical structure and its contextual backdrop.

## Spatial Connectivity
### Celestial Harmony
The architectural framework introduces the concept of "Celestial Harmony," which promotes an intrinsic relationship between human experience and the natural environment. Utilizing advanced computational design techniques, the structure integrates with the rugged topography, ensuring that the building maintains a distinct identity while simultaneously respecting its surroundings. This architectural approach emphasizes the fluidity of spaces, allowing for a cohesive interaction between the inhabitants and the landscape.

### Innovative Morphology
The design employs the Fibonacci sequence to create organic forms that resonate with natural patterns, enhancing spatial connectivity and promoting an exploration of light and shadow within the interior. Each functional area is interlinked, guided by fluid transitions and elevators that navigate through layered levels. The arrangement of spaces, from communal gathering areas to private retreats, is informed by principles of light maximization and environmental connection.

## Material Considerations
### Material Selection
The choice of materials for the "Home of Shadow" reflects both resilience and an aesthetic kinship with Wadi Rum's geological features. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, natural stone for contextual engagement, and glass to optimize views and natural illumination. Textured finishes further enhance the building's integration with its environment, simulating organic forms found in nature.

### Functional Aesthetics
Beyond their physical properties, the selected materials evoke emotional and sensory responses, allowing occupants to forge a tangible connection with the arid landscape. The design's emphasis on textured surfaces and visual continuity fosters an immersive experience, prompting inhabitants to engage with the home in a meaningful manner, thereby elevating the dwelling experience beyond mere functionality.

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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
The Home of 
Shadows
The Home of Shadows
The light studies. Edition #4
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5

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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