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Date Palm Ash and Natural Light Shape a Harmonious Dwelling in Dubai

Date Palm Ash and Natural Light Shape a Harmonious Dwelling in Dubai
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Utilizing date palm ash as a sustainable binder and integrating natural light through strategic design, this dwelling in Dubai fosters harmony while serving as a multi-functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes date palm ash as an eco-friendly construction material.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to enhance ventilation and social interaction.
03
Design follows the golden ratio for balanced proportions and aesthetics.
04
Features integrated water elements that contribute to ambiance and sustainability.
05
Employs natural light strategies through large openings and thoughtful orientation.

### Home of Harmony and Exchangesum

Located in Dubai, the design of the Home of Harmony and Exchangesum promotes connectivity among individuals, their environment, and their interactions. This project responds to contemporary social needs by prioritizing harmony between occupants and their surroundings, facilitating relationships through strategic architectural elements. The central courtyard designed as a sanctuary enables moments of introspection, while functional zones—including living areas, multi-function spaces, and private quarters—are organized to balance privacy and communal interaction.

#### Spatial Configuration
The dwelling's layout is characterized by a central courtyard surrounded by various key spaces, such as the living and dining areas, a multi-function room, and a library, each arranged to encourage social engagement while preserving individual privacy. Bedrooms are positioned on the upper floor to enhance secluded living while remaining visually connected to communal areas. This arrangement reflects the dualities inherent in family living, facilitating a harmonious coexistence of collective and private experiences.

#### Sustainable Materiality
An innovative approach to material selection is evident in the use of date palm ash as a sustainable alternative to conventional construction materials. This alkali-activated binder, combined with alumina and silica, bolsters the structural integrity of the building while significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional methods. Recycled aggregates further contribute to the project's environmentally conscious agenda, emphasizing the use of local resources as a cornerstone of its design philosophy.

#### Distinctive Architectural Features
A designated water feature serves as a key design element, enriching the home's aesthetic and spiritual landscape. The use of the golden ratio in spatial organization enhances the occupants' experience, promoting a sense of order and tranquility. Additionally, the integration of greenery throughout the design fosters a connection with nature, maximizing natural light and creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The structural form incorporates sweeping arches, blending contemporary and timeless elements, while referencing cultural influences and modernist design principles.

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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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