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Curvilinear Facade Composed of Glass Blocks and Sand Bricks in a Sustainable Desert Home

Curvilinear Facade Composed of Glass Blocks and Sand Bricks in a Sustainable Desert Home
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A dynamic curved facade crafted from glass blocks and sand bricks complements the sustainable design of this desert residence, providing an optimal balance of natural light and ventilation while creating inviting living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved facade design enhances wind flow and sunlight penetration.
02
Sand bricks incorporate local materials for environmental integration.
03
Glass blocks provide insulation while maintaining transparency.
04
Outdoor terraces extend living spaces, promoting connection to nature.
05
Passive cooling features reduce reliance on mechanical ventilation.

## Project Overview

Located in a desert environment, the Sand Villa explores a modern architectural approach that integrates design with its unique natural surroundings. The project focuses on creating functional and comfortable living spaces while respecting the distinct characteristics of the local landscape. The design incorporates a rectangular volume as its foundation, emphasizing a layered spatial arrangement that includes designated zones for entry, leisure, and communal activities.

## Architectural Form

**Dynamic Facade:** The villa features a curvilinear facade that balances aesthetic appeal with practical considerations such as shading and wind direction. This cascading form enhances the building’s three-dimensional quality, encouraging visual engagement from various vantage points.

**Spatial Organization:** The layout promotes a blend of privacy and interaction, with a clear segregation between private and communal areas. Living spaces are strategically placed to optimize natural light and views, ensuring a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The chosen material palette reflects both the environmental context and contemporary design principles. Glass blocks are prominently featured in the facade, allowing for transparency and interaction with the surroundings. Reinforced concrete provides durability, while sand incorporated within the glass bricks resonates with the local geography. Natural stone and terracotta finishes honor traditional materials, and wood elements are introduced for warmth in the interior spaces.

### Sustainable Features

The design emphasizes passive cooling techniques, incorporating windcatchers and operable windows to enhance ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, rooftop solar energy installations contribute to the villa's sustainability, aligning with an environmentally conscious approach to modern living.

## Spatial Arrangements

**Ground Floor (77.95 m²):** This level includes versatile spaces such as a garage and an open entryway leading directly to outdoor areas, including a pool.

**First Floor (82.23 m²):** The layout comprises living and dining areas, along with a dedicated children's area. Balconies serve to foster outdoor connection while maintaining sightlines to the downstairs pool area.

**Second Floor (139.18 m²):** Designed for tranquility, the upper level features bedrooms with serene views and sufficient storage, many of which access outdoor terraces.

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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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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