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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Masonry Define Sustainable Living Spaces in the Desert

Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Masonry Define Sustainable Living Spaces in the Desert
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and recycled masonry, the design facilitates energy efficiency and natural ventilation while serving as a contemporary family residence in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural stability and sustainability.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for optimal natural ventilation throughout the home.
04
Integrates recycled masonry to reduce environmental impact and local resource use.
05
Adopts a bent A-frame design to maximize interior space and aesthetic appeal.

### Project Overview

Located in the United Arab Emirates, the residential villa embodies a commitment to sustainable architecture by integrating traditional design elements with contemporary ecological practices. The intent is to create a living space that fosters a connection between modern lifestyles and the surrounding environment, emphasizing eco-conscious living through careful spatial organization and innovative material selection.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The villa's spatial layout promotes a harmonious flow between public and private areas. The basement accommodates utility services, including parking and storage, while the ground floor features expansive living and dining spaces that open directly into a central courtyard, balancing social interaction with opportunities for quiet reflection. On the first floor, private bedrooms and a lounge area offer views of the courtyard, enhancing the overall accessibility and interaction between different levels of the home.

### Material Usage and Environmental Considerations

The selection of materials serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, aligning with the project's sustainable ethos. Wood is utilized for its warmth and sustainability, forming significant facade elements, while glass maximizes natural light and provides unobstructed views. Recycled masonry constitutes boundary walls and structural components, reinforcing the commitment to ecological responsibility. Concrete ensures durability, and stone details reflect regional architectural traditions. Moreover, the design incorporates passive cooling strategies and solar panels, equipping the villa with energy-efficient technologies that reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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