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Vertical Gardens and Wind Catchers Enhance Sustainable Living in Natural Timber Framework

Vertical Gardens and Wind Catchers Enhance Sustainable Living in Natural Timber Framework
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Incorporating wind catchers and vertical gardens within a natural timber framework, this residence in Dubai harmonizes environmental sensitivity with functionality to create a sustainable living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind catchers for natural ventilation.
02
Features vertical gardens that enhance air quality and aesthetics.
03
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Uses charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance.
05
Emphasizes outdoor living with multiple private terraces for residents.

# Analytical Report on the Iqbal Home Project in Dubai

## Project Overview

Located in a densely populated area of Dubai, the Iqbal Home project integrates sustainable architectural practices with a focus on cultural heritage. The design responds to the region's extreme climatic conditions while addressing contemporary living requirements. The intent is to blend traditional Emirati architectural elements with modern functionality, ensuring both aesthetic integrity and practicality.

## Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The layout of the Iqbal Home is designed to promote both privacy and community interaction. The ground floor features a spacious garage, a service block, guest accommodations, and private outdoor areas, facilitating ease of access to shared living spaces. On the first floor, bedrooms include private terraces that not only optimize views but also provide quiet retreats from communal areas. The thoughtful arrangement exemplifies a balance between openness and intimacy, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Architectural Features and Sustainability

Key architectural elements include a wind catcher (Malqaf), which utilizes natural ventilation to maintain indoor comfort while reducing energy consumption. Additionally, intricately designed Mashrabiya screens offer privacy and filter light and air, enriching the living environment. The integration of vertical gardens throughout the property enhances natural aesthetics and improves air quality, aligning with sustainable practices.

The project incorporates a range of eco-friendly elements, such as strategically placed solar panels and systems that ensure optimal ventilation. This commitment to sustainability is further reflected in the circulation patterns designed to promote ease of movement while minimizing energy use. The Iqbal Home serves as a model for environmentally responsible residential design that honors its cultural context.

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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
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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