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Brass Accents and Circular Forms Elevate Sustainable Living in Desert Housing

Brass Accents and Circular Forms Elevate Sustainable Living in Desert Housing
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Circular forms integrated with brass accents and sustainable materials define a residential space that prioritizes environmental sensitivity while fostering community interaction in a harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular forms enhance natural airflow throughout the living spaces.
02
Brass elements provide durability while contributing to the overall aesthetic.
03
Integrated green spaces promote biodiversity and outdoor engagement.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction waste and enhance insulation.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for efficient water runoff in arid conditions.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the "Orbis" project investigates the intersection of historical architectural principles and contemporary living standards, aiming to create a space that not only serves as shelter but also enhances community interaction and individual well-being. The design philosophy acknowledges that architectural narratives from the past inform future aspirations, resulting in a structure that integrates memory with functional living spaces while addressing environmental sustainability.

## Spatial Strategy

The organization of space within "Orbis" is meticulously planned to facilitate both community engagement and personal privacy. The ground floor is designated for communal activities, featuring flexible areas that can accommodate gatherings and workshops, fostering social cohesion among residents. The first floor balances semi-private family spaces with open-plan layouts that invite interaction without compromising individual retreats. The upper level is reserved for private use, ensuring that personal space is preserved while remaining visually connected to the communal areas below. This nuanced approach to spatial arrangement promotes a harmonious living environment, enhancing resident experience.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials in "Orbis" is driven by principles of sustainability and aesthetic coherence. Concrete serves as a robust structural element, whereas extensive use of glass fosters natural light and visual connectivity, promoting openness. Interior spaces feature wood finishes that impart warmth and texture, while brass accents provide visual contrast and dynamic reflections. Furthermore, the design incorporates sustainable features such as solar energy systems and rainwater harvesting, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsiveness. Landscape integration further supports biodiversity and outdoor interaction, enhancing the overall living experience in alignment with the climatic context of Dubai.

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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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

`
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
Advance registration deadline 18 February 2026

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