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Cylindrical Living Spaces Featuring Glass Façades and Integrated Renewable Energy Systems

Cylindrical Living Spaces Featuring Glass Façades and Integrated Renewable Energy Systems
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Cylindrical forms clad in glass and concrete integrate renewable energy systems, creating a multifamily residence that emphasizes communal living and sustainability in Dubai's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical form enhances natural ventilation through strategic airflow paths.
02
Integrated geothermal systems provide efficient energy usage for the entire villa.
03
Extensive glass facades maximize daylight while framing desert views.
04
Communal areas are designed to promote social interaction among residents.
05
Elevated design minimizes environmental impact in a desert setting.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, the design of "Solidarity" features a distinctive architectural approach that balances aesthetic considerations with sustainable practices and a focus on community living. The villa is characterized by a large cylindrical structure that encapsulates a smaller cylindrical volume containing four functional living units. This configuration emphasizes themes of unity and innovation, aligning with both local cultural traditions and contemporary architectural practices.

## Spatial Organization and User Experience

The villa's layout is divided into functional segments that cater to modern living needs while promoting communal interaction. The ground floor comprises expansive communal areas that connect to kitchens and living spaces, designed with practical outdoor parking considerations. The first floor is dedicated to private bedrooms and a majlis, which opens to views of the Dubai skyline, enhancing the spatial experience and fostering a sense of connection with the surroundings. The design encourages collaborative living, ensuring privacy without compromising on the shared community spirit.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The material palette employed in the villa prioritizes both structural integrity and environmental sustainability. Glass is utilized extensively on the façades, maximizing natural light and providing panoramic views. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, contributing to thermal mass and stability. The design incorporates innovative sustainability features, including a wind chimney system for natural ventilation, geothermal energy installations, and strategically placed solar panels to optimize energy efficiency. Furthermore, elevating the structure by 30 centimeters minimizes environmental impact, addressing potential flooding and heat absorption issues. These elements work together to create a harmonious balance between ecological principles and the demands of modern living.

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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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