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Charred Wooden Screens and Sustainable Terraces in a Modern Emirati Family Home

Charred Wooden Screens and Sustainable Terraces in a Modern Emirati Family Home
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Utilizing charred wooden screens for shading and natural ventilation, the design integrates flexible living spaces with sustainable terraces to create a functional family residence in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and structural efficiency.
03
Features large outdoor terraces designed for community gathering and interaction.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates sustainable water harvesting systems for efficient resource management.

## Project Overview
Located in the United Arab Emirates, the design of the House of the Future harmonizes contemporary living with traditional Emirati architectural principles. This residence thoughtfully addresses the lifestyle needs of Emirati families by incorporating communal outdoor spaces and advanced sustainable technologies.

## Spatial Strategy and Privacy
The layout emphasizes interconnectivity and functionality across multiple levels, fostering a dynamic relationship between indoor and outdoor environments. Large terraces and balconies are designed to promote informal socialization, reflecting cultural preferences for openness and communal gathering while responding to the local climate. The spatial organization centers around a lobby that seamlessly connects social areas with dedicated service zones, minimizing corridor space and enhancing flow. Privacy is a key consideration, achieved through strategically positioned voids and screens that facilitate light and airflow while preserving the seclusion of family members.

## Materiality and Sustainable Design
A diverse palette of materials contributes to both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility. Concrete provides structural robustness suitable for the climatic conditions, while wood adds warmth through window screens and beam covers. Expansive glass openings enhance natural light and visibility to landscaped areas. Sun-shading metal screens balance visual design with thermal efficiency. Sourcing materials locally supports regional economies and aligns with sustainability efforts, as seen in features like solar panels and water harvesting systems. The landscape incorporates native plants, promoting ecological balance and reducing water usage. Additionally, rooftop terraces and open courtyards encourage outdoor activities and cultural practices, enriching the livability of the home.

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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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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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