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Adjustable Terraces and Wind Towers Crafted from Local Materials in a Modern Residential Setting

Adjustable Terraces and Wind Towers Crafted from Local Materials in a Modern Residential Setting
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With adjustable terraces and integrated wind towers crafted from locally sourced materials, the design achieves a seamless indoor-outdoor connection in a modern residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Adjustable terraces provide customizable outdoor living spaces for enhanced privacy and social interaction.
02
Wind towers are integrated into the design to promote passive cooling and improve air circulation.
03
Prefabricated steel and locally sourced clay materials enhance structural integrity while reducing environmental impact.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light entry and offers unique spatial dynamics.
05
Landscaping incorporates regional flora to foster biodiversity and complement the architectural form.

## Project Overview
Located in Dubai, this residential development focuses on creating a tranquil living environment that contrasts with the vibrant urban surroundings. The design emphasizes flexible living spaces that adapt to the needs of its inhabitants, utilizing strategic spatial arrangements, carefully selected materials, and sustainable practices to achieve both functionality and aesthetic integrity.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The design features a network of terraces that facilitate a dialogue between indoor and outdoor environments, encouraging relaxation and social interaction. The spatial organization clearly delineates public and private areas, ensuring comfort while promoting openness among residents and guests. Flexible terrace designs enable homeowners to customize their living spaces, fostering personalization in contemporary housing.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The architectural choices reflect a commitment to durability and environmental responsibility. A prefabricated steel structure forms the backbone of the building, allowing for efficient construction and robustness. Locally sourced materials, such as a regional clay mix with concrete, enhance thermal performance, addressing the climatic challenges of the region. Large glass elements ensure abundant natural light, reinforcing the connection with the landscape while remaining energy-efficient.

Additionally, the incorporation of a wind tower optimizes natural ventilation, enhancing indoor climate control without reliance on mechanical systems. The landscaping integrates local flora to create a complementary micro-ecosystem, enriching both the architectural experience and local biodiversity.

### Floor Distribution
The residence is organized over three levels, each assigned distinct functions:
- **First Floor (138.67 m²)**: Features communal areas such as living, dining, and kitchen spaces, including a patio for outdoor engagement.
- **Second Floor (156.23 m²)**: Houses private quarters with bedrooms and adaptable terraces, ensuring ample natural light while maintaining privacy.
- **Third Floor/Rooftop (16.87 m²)**: Designed for future expansion, this level serves as an observational space, enhancing overall spatial dynamics.

### Area Summary
- **Total Area Under Roof**: 305.97 m²
- **Area Distribution**:
- First Floor: 138.67 m²
- Second Floor: 156.23 m²
- Third Floor: 16.87 m²

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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