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Wind Tower Integration and Prefabricated Structures in Sustainable Desert Living

Wind Tower Integration and Prefabricated Structures in Sustainable Desert Living
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Incorporating a Wind Tower and prefabricated structures, the design effectively addresses energy efficiency and climate adaptation while serving as a sustainable residence in the arid landscape of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a Wind Tower for enhanced natural cooling.
02
Utilizes prefabricated walls to minimize construction waste.
03
Integrates solar panels for energy self-sufficiency.
04
Features a communal Majlis that reflects local traditions.
05
Employs an advanced rainwater harvesting system for irrigation.

### Overview
Located in the Al Qudra Desert of Dubai, the House of the Future serves as a contemporary architectural model that harmonizes modern living with ecological responsibility. This initiative showcases a thoughtful integration of traditional Bedouin concepts within a framework designed to respond to the surrounding desert environment, prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and cultural resonance.

### Spatial Organization
The residential layout is strategically developed across three levels—basement, ground floor, and first floor—on a 15x30 meter plot with an expansion capability of up to 123 sqm. The basement is designed for functionality, encompassing a heavy cooking kitchen, staff accommodations, and storage space. The ground level features interconnected living and dining areas that open to the outdoor environment, as well as a flexible gym/office space and necessary utility facilities. The first floor accommodates private areas, including a master suite and two additional bedrooms, complemented by a balcony that enhances both living space and outdoor interaction.

### Material and Energy Efficiency
Material selection plays a crucial role in maintaining the project’s sustainability objectives. The employment of locally sourced and environmentally conscious materials reduces the carbon footprint. Prefabricated walls expedite construction while minimizing waste. The roof integrates solar panels for energy generation, supported by lightweight yet durable aluminum and steel structural components. The use of concrete and plaster provides thermal mass, optimizing passive heating and cooling strategies.

### Advanced Sustainable Solutions
In response to water scarcity, an advanced irrigation system utilizes rainwater collected via the Wind Tower, which also serves as a natural cooling mechanism. The project is powered by a combination of solar energy and wind turbines, with a battery system in place to store excess energy. Additionally, smart home technology includes a centralized Smart Panel that controls climate, lighting, and security, allowing for adaptive responses to environmental conditions and occupancy.

### Community Engagement
Landscape design incorporates native plants, such as date palms and bougainvillea, which enhance the aesthetic appeal while requiring minimal water. Communal spaces, or Majlis, foster social interactions and encourage cultural continuity, providing a modern response to traditional community gatherings.

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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.

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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