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Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Concrete Create a Flexible Living Environment in a Modern Emirati Residence

Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Concrete Create a Flexible Living Environment in a Modern Emirati Residence
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Utilizing charred wood shingles and precast concrete, the design offers a modular living environment that adapts to the evolving needs of Emirati families while maintaining cultural integrity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainable building practices.
03
Features a flexible modular layout that adapts to changing family needs.
04
Integrates a central courtyard for natural light and social interaction.
05
Utilizes precast concrete elements for efficient construction and structural integrity.

### Project Overview

Located in Al Fourjan, the FutureShift House is an architectural design aimed at addressing the multifaceted needs of Emirati citizens. It enhances flexibility and personalization in residential spaces through modular configurations that cater to diverse family structures and living arrangements. The design is deeply rooted in the cultural and social context of the United Arab Emirates, promoting sustainability across social, environmental, and economic dimensions.

### Modularity and User Adaptability

Central to the design is the concept of modularity, which allows for the reconfiguration of space in response to the evolving needs of families. This adaptability ensures that the residence can accommodate various family types, from single-parent households to extended families. The structure features dedicated spaces for both communal interaction and privacy, facilitating a balanced living environment. The inclusion of intelligent design elements enables future homeowners to customize layouts via a digital interface, tailoring dimensions and configurations to suit their requirements.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The project employs a carefully considered selection of materials that align with its sustainability goals. Precast concrete is utilized for structural elements, providing durability and efficient construction. Large glass panels in the central courtyard facilitate natural light while connecting the interior with the external environment. Additionally, the incorporation of wood in the roof structure adds warmth and cultural resonance to the design. These material choices reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility while enhancing user experience through aesthetic and functional benefits.

### Structural Organization and Spatial Dynamics

The layout is deliberately organized around a central courtyard, serving as a climatic and social focal point for the residence. The ground floor features essential communal spaces—living room, dining area, and kitchen—interconnected with shaded areas to promote accessibility and interaction. Private quarters, located on the first floor, are designed for minimal disruption, ensuring optimal comfort for residents. Furthermore, functional zones, such as maid's quarters and storage, are integrated thoughtfully into the spatial arrangement to enhance overall efficiency without detracting from the living experience.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
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

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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