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Wind Towers and Natural Clay Walls in a Sustainable Residential Design

Wind Towers and Natural Clay Walls in a Sustainable Residential Design
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Leveraging traditional wind towers and natural clay walls, this sustainable residence integrates advanced ventilation and energy-efficient systems to create an environmentally responsive home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind towers for natural ventilation.
02
Utilizes natural clay walls for thermal regulation and insulation.
03
Features a rainwater collection system for enhanced sustainability.
04
Integrates solar panels on wind towers for renewable energy generation.
05
Emphasizes community interaction with open and flexible living spaces.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, "The House of the Future" integrates traditional architectural elements with contemporary sustainable practices. The design reflects a commitment to self-sustainability and environmental integration, drawing on the region's rich cultural heritage. The intent is to create a residence that contributes to the dialogue surrounding future residential architecture through environmental harmony and resource efficiency.

## Core Concept

The project centers around the principles of elasticity in time, space, and materials, emphasizing the interdependence with nature. Fundamental elements such as earth, water, vegetation, wind, and rain are woven into the design, promoting a self-sufficient living environment. The design also incorporates traditional wind towers, reinterpreted to enhance functionality and meet modern sustainability benchmarks.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout is purposefully designed to facilitate social interactions and private living areas. The ground floor includes communal spaces like the living and dining areas, characterized by expansive openings that foster a connection with the outdoor environment. The first floor provides private accommodations, with strategically positioned windows enhancing natural light and ventilation for comfort.

### Sustainable Strategies

Sustainability is a core focus of the design, featuring multiple strategies such as natural ventilation through wind towers to enhance air exchange, and an integrated rainwater collection system that supports self-sufficiency in water management. Additionally, solar panels are incorporated to generate renewable energy, minimizing dependence on conventional energy sources. The adoption of these technologies illustrates a forward-thinking approach to resource management within a residential setting.

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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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