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Windcatchers and Adobe Construction Enhancing Natural Ventilation in a Desert Residence

Windcatchers and Adobe Construction Enhancing Natural Ventilation in a Desert Residence
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Employing traditional windcatchers and adobe materials to achieve effective natural ventilation, the residence seamlessly integrates local architectural heritage with modern living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Traditional windcatchers channel cooling breezes throughout the home.
02
Adobe construction enhances thermal mass and energy efficiency.
03
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed glass openings.
04
The layout promotes a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
05
Local ceramic tiles provide both aesthetic value and functional benefits.

### Concept Overview

Located in the Yazd region of Iran, the project "Water and the Mirror" explores the integration of cultural heritage within contemporary living spaces. By reinterpreting traditional architectural elements, such as wind catchers (badgirs), the design aims to maintain the essence of historical practices while meeting the practical needs of modern lifestyles. Central to the design is the relationship between water, light, and spatial organization, which informs both functional and aesthetic considerations in addressing the local climate's challenges.

### Spatial Organization and Interaction

The layout features a deliberate transition from communal to private areas, enhancing social interaction in shared spaces like the kitchen and living room while preserving intimacy in personal zones such as the bedrooms. This open-plan design fosters a sense of community while catering to contemporary living requirements. Strategic openings allow for the flow of natural light, resulting in an engaging interplay between interior and exterior environments that invites the landscape into the living areas.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

Materiality is a critical aspect of the design, with choices reflecting both tradition and modern sensibilities. Adobe bricks are used for thermal regulation, while large glass windows facilitate ample daylight, enhancing the connection to the outdoors. The incorporation of wood in furniture and door frames adds warmth, while locally crafted tiles contribute to thermal comfort and visual appeal. The project emphasizes sustainability through passive cooling strategies, ensuring the dwelling remains livable within the context of the region's extreme climate while retaining a narrative that honors Yazd's architectural heritage.

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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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