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3d Printed Courtyard Home Utilizing Natural Materials for Passive Climate Control
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Utilizing advanced 3D printing technology, this residence integrates a central courtyard with natural ventilation elements and sustainable materials to create a comfortable living environment in Dubai's challenging climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printed concrete for efficient and precise construction.
02
Features a central courtyard that enhances natural airflow and light.
03
Incorporates local stone to integrate with the regional environment.
04
Employs passive design strategies to minimize energy consumption.
05
Designed for flexibility, allowing for adaptability over time.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the 3D Printed Breathing House (3DPBH) merges cultural influences with technological innovation and sustainable practices. This architectural proposal builds upon the principles of the traditional courtyard house while integrating modern construction techniques, particularly 3D printing, to achieve eco-friendly design standards. The project aims to serve as a prototype for future residential architecture that reflects local heritage while addressing contemporary needs.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout features a central courtyard, which facilitates natural light and airflow, thereby minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. This organization, characterized by fluid contours and organic forms, promotes communal living while maintaining individual privacy through a circular arrangement. Interior spaces consist of open-plan living areas designed for flexibility and adaptability, enhanced by large openings that optimize natural light and vistas. Outdoor landscaping incorporates lush greenery and shaded seating areas, providing inviting environments for relaxation and social interaction.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette emphasizes sustainability while ensuring structural stability. 3D-printed concrete serves as the primary construction material, allowing for adaptable forms and reducing waste during fabrication. The design incorporates glass to create a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering ample natural illumination. Reinforced steel is utilized in key structural zones to maintain safety and support open spaces, while locally sourced natural stone contributes to the contextual resonance of the building. Additionally, the inclusion of tropical plants enhances thermal regulation and supports the overall eco-friendly footprint of the project.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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