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Curved Clay Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Family-Centric Desert Home

Curved Clay Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Family-Centric Desert Home
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Curved clay walls and a central interior garden create a naturally ventilated oasis designed for family living within the harsh desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved clay walls provide thermal insulation while complementing the regional aesthetic.
02
An interior garden enhances air quality and family interaction within the home.
03
The design integrates natural ventilation systems optimized for desert airflow.
04
Large glass windows are strategically placed to maximize light without sacrificing privacy.
05
The layout prioritizes communal spaces while maintaining distinct private areas for family members.

### Project Overview

The Mudejar Maskan project is located in a desert region, drawing on traditional Islamic architectural principles while meeting contemporary living requirements. The design emphasizes a family-oriented environment, characterized by a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Traditional Islamic houses inspire the layout, promoting an intimate relationship among various areas of the home while responding to the climatic and cultural nuances of the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction

The core of the design is defined by the inclusion of a central patio that acts as a hub for family interaction and leisure activities. Complementary to this, the layout consists of well-defined hallways, corridors, and balconies that support the daily life of residents while respecting cultural and religious customs. This organization not only fosters a fluid movement through the space but also facilitates community engagement within the family structure.

### Material Selection and Environmental Performance

Material choices in the design play a pivotal role in addressing local climatic challenges. The use of double-curved walls creates a protective thermal envelope, improving insulation against extreme heat and sandstorms. A composite of reinforced concrete and clay provides structural strength while enhancing thermal efficiency. Large windows utilize glass to maximize daylight penetration, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere while maintaining privacy. Additionally, lightweight steel elements are strategically incorporated to support access stairways and enhance the overall aesthetic coherence.

The design incorporates several features that prioritize both comfort and sustainability. Curved walls improve airflow and mitigate solar heat absorption, critical in desert climates. The multi-level structure enhances the spatial experience by providing varied perspectives and facilitating natural ventilation through operable windows. An interior garden integrated into the patio not only improves air quality but also strengthens the connection between architecture and nature, supporting the well-being of occupants while emphasizing a sustainable approach to residential design.

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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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