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Curvilinear Roofs and Brick Construction Harmonize with Desert Landscape

Curvilinear Roofs and Brick Construction Harmonize with Desert Landscape
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Employing curvilinear roofs crafted from sustainable materials, the design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding desert landscape while providing a functional residence that emphasizes natural ventilation and energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear roofs enhance natural ventilation and reduce heat gain.
02
Brick façade provides thermal mass, responding effectively to temperature fluctuations.
03
Optimized building orientation maximizes solar efficiency and minimizes energy use.
04
Water features integrated into the design contribute to passive cooling elements.
05
Buffer zones transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, improving comfort.

## Architectural Design Project Report

### Overview

This project is a residential design located in East Dubai, United Arab Emirates, addressing critical aspects of climate-responsive architecture. Situated in a region characterized by extreme temperatures and humidity, the design aims to create a comfortable living environment year-round while minimizing energy use. The approach integrates both traditional influences and contemporary design elements, fostering a strong connection to the surrounding desert landscape.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Organization

The structural design incorporates three distinct, curved roofs that draw inspiration from traditional boat forms, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and climatic functionality. This curvature facilitates a play of light and shadow, allowing natural light to permeate interior spaces while mitigating the effects of direct sunlight.

The spatial arrangement divides the residence into two levels, with the first level accommodating private and communal areas, including a living room, dining area, and kitchen. The upper level hosts additional bedrooms and family living spaces, promoting separation between communal and private functions. A designated buffer zone operates as a transitional space between indoors and outdoors, improving thermal comfort through effective airflow management.

### Material Choices and Sustainability Measures

Material selection is integral to both sustainability and the building’s visual character. The main structural component is brick, chosen for its thermal mass and harmony with the surrounding desert tones. Concrete offers durability, while warm wood accents in the roofing connect the structure with its natural environment. Light blue glass panels are integrated to invoke aquatic colors, providing both functional glazing and aesthetic value through their reflective qualities.

Sustainability is embedded in the design through several strategies. Natural ventilation is enhanced by the roof profile, minimizing the need for mechanical cooling systems. Solar panels, generating 17 kWp, contribute to energy autonomy and reduce the home's carbon footprint. Water management techniques are employed through the incorporation of water features and strategic layering of surfaces, which not only fulfill aesthetic goals but also serve cooling functions. The building's orientation and thermal massing techniques further optimize sunlight management, demonstrating adaptability to its climate while promoting energy efficiency.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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