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3d Printed Walls and Kinetic Screens Defining Sustainable Living in a Desert Environment

3d Printed Walls and Kinetic Screens Defining Sustainable Living in a Desert Environment
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Constructed with 3D printed walls and integrated kinetic screens, this residence emphasizes sustainability and resource efficiency while providing a flexible living environment in a culturally rich context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced sand and clay through 3D printing technology.
02
Features kinetic metal screens for dynamic shading and temperature control.
03
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for enhanced sustainability.
04
Design includes multiple courtyards for improved ventilation and social interaction.
05
Integrates vertical farming modules to promote local agriculture and biodiversity.

## Project Overview

Located in a contemporary and eco-conscious setting, the "Unplugged" project embodies a commitment to sustainable living while integrating modern luxury with traditional Emirati architectural principles. The design intention revolves around creating a residential space that fosters a strong connection with nature and employs advanced technological solutions for resource management. Emphasizing sustainability, community engagement, and cultural heritage, the project reflects a forward-thinking approach to modern habitation.

## Spatial Organization and User Dynamics

The spatial layout prioritizes intimacy and interaction, featuring a combination of communal and private spaces designed to accommodate diverse user profiles, including families and domestic staff. This strategic configuration both encourages social connectivity and respects individual privacy, aligning with cultural values that prioritize family and community dynamics. Common areas are enhanced through thoughtful architectural design, promoting a sense of belonging and engagement within the residence.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration

The construction of "Unplugged" utilizes innovative materials and technologies aimed at reducing environmental impact. Key elements include:
- **3D Printed Walls**: Created using a sustainable mixture of sand and clay, these walls offer unique textural qualities while minimizing waste during construction.
- **Photovoltaic Panels**: Extensively integrated throughout the design, these panels provide energy-efficient solutions, meeting the household's electricity needs sustainably.
- **Kinetic Screens**: Designed to optimize natural light and decrease energy consumption, these adaptive metal screens enhance the building's environmental performance.
- **Rainwater Harvesting System**: This system is crucial for self-sufficient water management, capturing and filtering rainwater for reuse.
- **Vertical Farming Modules**: Located on green walls, these modules support local biodiversity and food security, allowing residents to engage in agricultural practices.

### Architectural Features

- **Courtyard Design**: The incorporation of multiple courtyards facilitates natural ventilation and enhances thermal comfort, serving as informal gathering spaces.
- **Wind Catcher**: This feature aids in regulating indoor temperatures by directing cool breezes into living areas, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling.
- **Expansion Capabilities**: The design allows for future adaptability and expansion, accommodating changing family dynamics and lifestyles.
- **Integration of Nature**: Gardens throughout the site foster a connection to the natural environment, promoting mental well-being and enhancing the aesthetic experience of the residence.

The design outcomes present a harmonious balance between modern architectural forms and traditional motifs, resulting in a visually engaging residence that serves as a reflection of Emirati identity and values centered around hospitality and community.

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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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