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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biocomposite Materials Define a Modern Emirati Family Home

Charred Wooden Shingles and Biocomposite Materials Define a Modern Emirati Family Home
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Emphasizing the use of charred wooden shingles and biocomposite materials, this modern Emirati home integrates traditional design with sustainable construction methods to create a flexible living space for contemporary families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a double-roofing system for enhanced thermal insulation and natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates biocomposite materials to minimize environmental impact in construction.
03
Features an internal courtyard that promotes natural light and airflow throughout the home.
04
Modular design allows flexible space reconfiguration for evolving family needs.
05
Employs locally sourced materials, fostering regional sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.

**Overview**

Located in the coastal regions of the Emirates, the Arish 2.0 project reflects a contemporary interpretation of traditional Emirati housing. Building upon the ancestral "Arish" structure, the design addresses modern family needs while maintaining a connection to cultural heritage. The intent is to create a flexible living environment that promotes both social interaction and individual privacy, allowing for diverse familial dynamics.

**Spatial Strategy**

The layout consists of two floors centered around an internal courtyard, facilitating communal engagement. Modular spaces are incorporated into the design, which enables the reconfiguration of interiors to adapt to changing family requirements. The use of a double-roofing system enhances thermal insulation and utilizes natural mechanisms for climate control, thereby reducing reliance on artificial cooling.

**Materiality and Sustainability**

The construction integrates a range of materials selected for their durability and environmental impact. Concrete serves as the structural backbone, while locally sourced wood provides aesthetic and functional elements. Large glass openings maximize natural light and external views. Additionally, recycled biocomposite materials are used throughout, and prefabrication techniques are employed to increase efficiency and minimize waste. This combination of material choices and construction methods underscores the project's commitment to 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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