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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Contemporary Emirati Residence

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Contemporary Emirati Residence
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and traditional windcatchers, this contemporary Emirati residence enhances natural ventilation and privacy while providing a multifunctional living space for families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional windcatchers for passive cooling and airflow.
02
Incorporates sustainable charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for family gatherings and social interaction.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and warmth.
05
Integrates native landscaping to promote ecological diversity and low maintenance.

# Analytical Report: Emirati House of the Future

## Overview
The Emirati House of the Future is situated in a high-density urban environment, where it serves to bridge traditional Emirati cultural values with contemporary architectural solutions. The design is rooted in an understanding of the local climate, cultural norms, and social dynamics, offering a residential setup that is both functional and reflective of the region's heritage.

## Cultural Integration and Spatial Strategy
The architecture incorporates key characteristics of Emirati design, emphasizing privacy and community through efficient spatial organization. Central to the layout are courtyards, which facilitate family gatherings and outdoor activities while serving as a functional climate moderation feature through natural ventilation. Traditional elements, such as wind towers, are engineered to function as passive cooling systems, effectively reducing reliance on mechanical air conditioning. Perforated privacy screens enhance resident comfort by allowing light and airflow, while also echoing the intricate motifs found in traditional Emirati textiles.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The project employs a diverse range of materials that highlight both modern construction techniques and traditional craftsmanship. Concrete provides structural integrity, while wood is used for decorative elements that showcase artisanal skills. Expansive glass facades are integrated to maximize natural light and blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Ceramic tiles are used for their thermal regulation properties. The landscaping features native plants, which require minimal maintenance and enrich the environment, incorporating elements such as fruit trees and herbal shrubs that support sustainable living practices.

The house’s orientation and high ceilings are tailored to optimize thermal comfort while addressing climatic challenges. This commitment to sustainable design principles is further reflected in the incorporation of smart home technologies, enhancing energy efficiency and contributing to a modern living experience that respects and preserves cultural identity.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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