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Bioplastic Facade with Muqarnas-Inspired Roof Design in Sustainable Dubai Residence

Bioplastic Facade with Muqarnas-Inspired Roof Design in Sustainable Dubai Residence
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A bioplastic facade coupled with a muqarnas-inspired roof structure defines a sustainable residence in Dubai, leveraging advanced water management and natural ventilation to create an efficient living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a bioplastic facade that enhances thermal insulation while minimizing environmental impact.
02
A muqarnas-inspired roof design facilitates natural ventilation and aesthetic appeal in a modern context.
03
Prefabricated construction methods streamline the building process and reduce onsite waste.
04
An integrated rainwater harvesting system efficiently collects and utilizes precipitation for household needs.
05
Waterless compost toilets significantly decrease water consumption, aligning with sustainable living practices.

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the project aims to integrate contemporary architectural design with sustainable practices suitable for the region’s arid climate. By prioritizing energy efficiency, natural ventilation, and water conservation, it serves as a potential model for future residential developments. The design philosophy draws inspiration from Arabic architectural heritage, specifically the *muqarnas*, while modernizing its geometric forms to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal.

### Spatial Organization
The design encompasses two levels, featuring an open-plan layout on the ground floor that unifies living, dining, and kitchen spaces to promote interaction. The upper level provides privacy with bedrooms while maintaining visual connections to the lower area through strategically placed openings and voids. Noteworthy spatial features include a well-lit living room with expansive glass panels, a dining area oriented toward outdoor views, and a central staircase facilitating movement between levels.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materials are selected for both their functional properties and environmental considerations. Prefabricated bioplastic panels offer lightweight insulation with minimal ecological impact, while concrete provides structural durability. Extensive use of glass enhances natural lighting and visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments. Sustainable practices are reinforced through the integration of composting, waterless toilets to reduce water usage, rainwater harvesting through the roof design, and a cross-ventilation system optimized by the building's curvilinear form.

Energy independence is achieved with solar panels and a custom eolic turbine wall, ensuring efficient energy generation. The project’s budget has been carefully planned to keep construction costs around AED 350,000, with the total projected at just under AED 600,000, demonstrating a commitment to affordability without sacrificing quality or sustainability.

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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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