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Charred Wooden Shingles and Low-Emissivity Glass in a Sustainable Family Residence

Charred Wooden Shingles and Low-Emissivity Glass in a Sustainable Family Residence
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Using charred wooden shingles and low-emissivity glass, the design creates an energy-efficient residence that harmonizes with the local environment while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates low-emissivity glass to optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes a Majlis designed for traditional gatherings and community interaction.
05
Employs rainwater harvesting systems to promote water conservation and sustainability.

### Overview

Horizon House is located in Dubai, UAE, within a culturally significant urban environment. It functions as a benchmark for sustainable living and addresses the interconnected needs of comfort, safety, and community integration. The design of Horizon House marries traditional cultural references with contemporary architectural principles, reflecting the evolving context of a rapidly urbanizing city.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout of Horizon House is characterized by a two-story configuration designed to enhance social interaction and privacy. The first floor hosts communal living areas, including the living room and dining spaces, while the second floor is dedicated to bedrooms and family lounges. The design facilitates clear movement between spaces, ensuring defined pedestrian and vehicular access. Additionally, an internal garden area promotes social engagement while preserving privacy through landscaped barriers. The incorporation of balconies and terraces extends the living space outdoors, connecting residents with nature.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural design employs a diverse material palette, emphasizing both aesthetics and environmental performance. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, thermal insulating plaster to enhance energy efficiency, and low-emissivity glass to maximize natural light while managing heat. Horizon House incorporates sustainability features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and microgrid technologies, aiming to minimize reliance on mechanical cooling and reduce overall energy consumption. This comprehensive approach to material selection and sustainability reflects both local traditions and modern sensibilities, making Horizon House a relevant model for future residential developments in urban settings.

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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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