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Thermal Mass Construction with Water Features and High-Performance Glazing in a Sustainable Family Home

Thermal Mass Construction with Water Features and High-Performance Glazing in a Sustainable Family Home
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Utilizing thermal mass construction techniques and incorporating water features alongside high-performance glazing, the residence offers efficient climate control and a harmonious living environment for families in a challenging desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes partially buried structures for enhanced thermal insulation.
02
Incorporates water features for passive cooling and microclimate regulation.
03
Features locally sourced stone flooring for temperature moderation.
04
Includes a central patio designed to optimize airflow throughout the home.
05
Utilizes recycled plastic for sunshade panels, promoting sustainability.

### Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the House of the Future serves as an innovative architectural response to the region's extreme climatic conditions. The design integrates historical and contemporary architectural elements, emphasizing sustainability and family living. By partially embedding the structure below ground, the project effectively utilizes natural insulation and temperature regulation, critical for the arid environment.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout is organized into distinct functional blocks that facilitate daily interactions and maximize usability. The public block at ground level includes communal areas such as a majlis, garage, and main hall, promoting social engagement. Central to the design, the patio serves as a hub for family activities, while the day block encompasses the kitchen and living spaces, and the night block contains private quarters like bedrooms and bathrooms. A dedicated service block enhances privacy by separating living spaces from household operations, thus supporting a versatile family dynamic.

### Material and Sustainability Features

The architectural form features rhythmic arches that enhance aesthetic appeal while providing necessary shading and ventilation, reflecting traditional Emirati design. Exterior cladding consists of thick reinforced concrete walls that ensure structural integrity and thermal mass for indoor climate control. Interior finishes utilize smooth plaster for a refined look, complemented by locally sourced stone flooring that contributes to temperature regulation. Sustainability is a key focus, with elements such as recycled plastics for sunshade panels and high-performance glazing for energy efficiency. Passive cooling techniques, including integrated water features and large 3D-printed sunshades, work in conjunction to create a comfortable living environment while minimizing energy consumption and emissions.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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