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Windcatchers and Recycled Palm Forms in a Sustainable Family Retreat
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Utilizing windcatchers for natural ventilation and recycled palm forms for structural elements, the design creates a sustainable environment that fosters family connection and community within a mini hotel setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes windcatchers for enhanced natural ventilation throughout the structure.
02
Incorporates recycled palm forms as primary structural elements to promote sustainability.
03
Features a terraced layout that optimizes outdoor space for community interaction.
04
Employs green wall systems to improve air quality and increase biodiversity.
05
Integrates flexible spaces that allow for personalized family use and adaptation over time.

**Location and Intent**
The Family Oasis project is a mini hotel situated in Dubai, a city known for its distinct blend of urban and desert environments. The design emphasizes eco-friendly living while honoring Emirati cultural heritage. Central to the concept is the notion of family unity, with an architectural approach aiming to create a space that encourages togetherness and reflects local traditions.

**Cultural and Spatial Strategy**
The design integrates elements inspired by traditional Emirati architecture, such as the **Majlis** and tent structures, while utilizing contemporary techniques to enhance functionality. The layered structure features varied heights and cantilevers that promote natural shading and outdoor connections. An emphasis on landscaped gardens with native plants invites nature into the urban fabric, facilitating a seamless interaction between interior and exterior spaces. Public areas, private quarters, and adaptable activity spaces ensure a balanced distribution that caters to both communal and individual needs.

**Sustainability and Materiality**
Sustainable practices are woven into the project's material selections, which include durable concrete, recyclable steel, and locally sourced recycled palm forms. Energy-efficient components such as solar glass and green wall systems contribute to the building's ecological performance. Passive solar strategies, including wind catchers and green roofs, are employed to enhance natural ventilation and mitigate heat, aligning the design with the climatic challenges of the region. This architectural approach not only fosters aesthetic value but also demonstrates a dedication to responsible development in the context of modern urban living.

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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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