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Dual-Roof Design Featuring Steel Frames and Natural Stone in a Mountain Micro-Home

Dual-Roof Design Featuring Steel Frames and Natural Stone in a Mountain Micro-Home
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A dual-roof structure with steel frames and natural stone integrates seamlessly into the mountainous landscape, offering a compact micro-home designed for sustainable living and panoramic views.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dual-roof structure enhances thermal performance and rainwater management.
02
Large panoramic windows optimize natural light and mountain views.
03
Steel framing allows for a lightweight and durable construction.
04
Natural stone façade seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape.
05
Compact design promotes energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

## Overview

The DAR micro-home, designed for mountainous environments, emphasizes a compact footprint while fostering a connection with the natural landscape. The project embraces the concept of home, represented by the Arabic term "DAR," and aims to create an architectural response to the surrounding terrain that prioritizes user experience and environmental sensitivity.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design features a unique spatial organization across three tiers, promoting interaction and function differentiation. The ground floor consists of an open living area, kitchen, and dining space, designed for communal activities. The first floor accommodates private spaces, including a bedroom and bathroom, facilitating a transition from shared to individual areas. A terrace on the second floor enhances outdoor connectivity while providing sweeping views of the mountains.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Key materials include concrete for structural integrity, expansive glass for maximizing natural light and views, and natural stone for aesthetic appeal. Steel frames contribute to a lightweight structure, while advanced construction methods—such as Evolution Wall Panels and triple-glazed windows—enhance energy efficiency and thermal insulation. The design incorporates a passive ventilation system for improved air circulation and a dual-roof system that integrates solar panels, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Strategically placed overhangs create shaded outdoor areas while preserving the natural landscape.

The configuration of the units allows for easy replication, encouraging community development without compromising individual residential experiences. This approach balances contemporary design with ecological considerations, establishing a model for future residential projects in similar terrains.

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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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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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