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Charred Screens and Renewable Materials Define a Sustainable Family Residence in Dubai

Charred Screens and Renewable Materials Define a Sustainable Family Residence in Dubai
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Employing charred wood screens for privacy and natural ventilation, this sustainable residence in Dubai integrates local materials and energy-efficient systems to create an inviting family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood screens provide effective privacy while promoting natural airflow.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and aesthetic appeal.
04
Landscaped courtyards incorporate traditional Islamic garden principles for tranquility.
05
Locally sourced materials reduce the carbon footprint and connect the residence to its environment.

### Overview

Al Shams House is situated in Dubai, reflecting a commitment to contemporary residential design that harmonizes urban sustainability and cultural heritage. Designed in alignment with the UAE’s vision for 2050, the house represents the amalgamation of modern architectural practices and traditional Islamic influences. The project aims to provide a sustainable living environment while emphasizing the importance of local narratives in an increasingly urban landscape.

### Sustainable Design and Materiality

The architectural framework emphasizes sustainability through the integration of efficient energy systems and environmentally conscious material selection. Key features include solar chimneys for natural ventilation and the use of locally sourced materials to minimize carbon footprints. The façade employs geometric patterns and screens, which are inspired by traditional Islamic art, allowing for optimal airflow and natural light while ensuring privacy. The use of concrete and reinforced steel enhances durability and resilience to the regional climate, while high windows of glass facilitate daylight penetration, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout of Al Shams House is carefully crafted to balance communal and private spaces. The ground floor consists of open areas, including a living room and kitchen designed to promote family interaction, with high ceilings and expansive windows to maximize natural light. In contrast, private zones on the upper floor ensure family privacy with thoughtful transitions to enhance comfort. Additionally, the landscaped garden incorporates traditional Islamic elements, creating a serene environment complemented by water features that contribute to the microclimate, fostering relaxation and social engagement.

### Innovative Features

Distinctive elements of the design include strategically positioned solar panels that harness renewable energy, significantly reducing operational costs. The house also serves as a community model, aiming to improve living conditions for residents, particularly in need of affordable housing solutions. By interweaving modern architectural design with cultural significance, Al Shams House establishes a residential environment that resonates with the rich historical context of the UAE while addressing the contemporary challenges of urban living.

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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
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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