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Curvilinear Form Embracing Local Stone and Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Desert Housing

Curvilinear Form Embracing Local Stone and Natural Ventilation in Sustainable Desert Housing
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Utilizing locally sourced stone and hydrophilic coatings, this sustainable residential design incorporates curvilinear forms that enhance natural ventilation, optimally functioning in a harsh desert environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hydrophilic coatings for efficient rainwater harvesting.
02
Incorporates curvilinear forms to reduce wind resistance.
03
Employs locally sourced stone to minimize transportation impact.
04
Design allows for flexible interior configurations based on resident needs.
05
Features natural ventilation systems optimized for desert climate.

## Overview

KAWAHID is an architectural project designed to address the unique challenges of the UAE's desert environment while prioritizing sustainable living. Located in a landscape characterized by arid conditions, the design seeks to create a harmonious relationship between its occupants and the ecosystem. The approach integrates functionality with aesthetic considerations, reflecting the cultural context of the region through its architectural language.

## Spatial Strategy and Cultural Reflection

The project's spatial strategy is defined by a curvilinear form that echoes the natural contours of the desert. This design not only responds to environmental factors such as wind and thermal conditions but also incorporates elements of traditional Islamic architecture, fostering community through intricate patterns and forms. The adaptive interior layout prioritizes open and flexible spaces, allowing for multifunctional living arrangements that accommodate varying user needs.

## Material Innovation and Sustainability

KAWAHID employs locally sourced stone and eco-friendly materials, which not only minimize transportation emissions but also integrate seamlessly with the local environment. Hydrophilic coatings have been utilized to enhance water collection capabilities, which are critical for resource management in harsh climates. The selected materials align with sustainability goals by ensuring low energy consumption and maintaining visual coherence with the surrounding landscape. The integration of solar panels designed as elements of the architecture further demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency, offering customizable solutions for residents.

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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.

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20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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