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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Bamboo Cladding in Sustainable Residential Community Design

Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Bamboo Cladding in Sustainable Residential Community Design
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Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and bamboo cladding, the design establishes a sustainable residential community that harmonizes with its environment while promoting efficient living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
A bent A-frame structure optimizes internal space while integrating natural light.
04
Bamboo cladding is utilized to promote sustainability and local material use.
05
The layout includes communal gardens to encourage community interaction among residents.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, this architectural design aims to provide a sustainable living solution that harmoniously integrates traditional desert architecture with modern technological advancements. The project seeks to embody principles of resource efficiency and adaptability, responding contextually to the local environment while honoring the cultural heritage of the region.

## Design Philosophy & Adaptation

The design approach emphasizes the relationship between historical architectural styles and contemporary needs. By utilizing local materials and construction methods, the project showcases a commitment to sustainability while acknowledging the cultural practices of the Emirates. Key aspects include modular design, which allows for flexible living configurations adaptable to the changing needs of families, and architectural features engineered to combat the region's climate challenges through natural ventilation and sun shading techniques.

## Materiality & Construction Techniques

A diverse array of locally sourced materials underpins the construction strategy. Prefabricated wooden panels, designed using 3D printing technology, and renewable timber mass slabs enhance structural integrity and thermal insulation. Natural stone and textiles contribute to the aesthetic while also assisting in temperature regulation. Bamboo elements are utilized for both structural and aesthetic purposes, linking the building to traditional practices. Architectural features such as louver systems and cross-ventilation strategies further improve energy efficiency and comfort by managing solar exposure and facilitating natural airflow throughout the space.

The layout consists of distinct zones that promote communal living yet ensure privacy within individual areas. The ground floor facilitates interaction with shared spaces, while the first floor prioritizes personal retreats, ensuring a seamless connection between the living environments and the natural surroundings.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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