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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Geometric Patterns Shape Sustainable Living in Desert Environment

Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Geometric Patterns Shape Sustainable Living in Desert Environment
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Incorporating cross-laminated timber panels and intricate geometric patterns, the design creates a sustainable living space that resonates with Bedouin cultural heritage while addressing modern residential needs in the UAE.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while reducing carbon footprint.
02
Geometric patterns inspired by Al Sadu textiles enhance aesthetic and functional performance.
03
Modular construction allows for future adaptability and reconfiguration of living spaces.
04
Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems support efficient water management.
05
Charred wooden shingles offer both fire resistance and a distinct visual texture.

### Project Overview
"From Loom to Living Space: Al Sadu's Architectural Odyssey," located in the United Arab Emirates, represents a convergence of contemporary architecture and traditional Bedouin culture. The design prioritizes sustainability, modularity, and cultural representation, emphasizing functional and aesthetic qualities that relate to the surrounding environment and its historical context.

### Architectural Strategy

#### Geometry
The design incorporates geometric patterns inspired by the 29-zigzag motifs of Al Sadu textiles. These patterns serve both decorative and functional roles, aiding in light regulation and ventilation to optimize the internal environment. The architectural language reinforces cultural significance while addressing modern living needs.

#### Malleability and Sustainability
A modular construction approach underpins the flexible design, allowing for adaptation and future expansion to accommodate diverse family configurations. This inherent flexibility reflects traditional Bedouin living arrangements, promoting a responsive residential environment. Sustainable practices are integral to the project, utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) from sustainably managed forests for structural elements, alongside renewable energy sources such as solar panels for electricity generation. Water management systems, including rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling, further enhance environmental responsibility.

### Material Palette
The material selection combines traditional influences with contemporary building techniques, including CLT for structural components, composite wall panels for insulation, and modular jali screens for shading and aesthetic appeal. The inclusion of concrete, traditional mud, and masonry emphasizes the project’s commitment to sustainable design practices.

### Design Outcomes

#### Circularity and Integration
The modular design promotes flexibility within residential units, allowing adaptations to meet evolving family needs while fostering community interaction and preserving privacy. Strategic architectural elements, such as iwan shading and vertical fins, are employed to reduce heat gain and enhance natural cooling, thereby minimizing reliance on air conditioning in the UAE’s hot climate.

### Unique Features
The design incorporates outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces that facilitate interaction with nature, reflecting a fundamental aspect of Bedouin life. The concept of "Material Memory" allows for custom modular components that evoke significant traditional patterns, maintaining a continuous cultural dialogue within the modern architectural framework.

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The Next House: USA
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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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