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Earth Air Tunnel and Energy-Efficient Living with Triple-Glazed Facades

Earth Air Tunnel and Energy-Efficient Living with Triple-Glazed Facades
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Harnessing natural cooling through an earth air tunnel and enhanced thermal performance with triple-glazed facades, this residence exemplifies energy-efficient living tailored for modern families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an earth air tunnel for passive cooling.
02
Features triple-glazed windows for enhanced thermal performance.
03
Utilizes aerated concrete blocks for lightweight construction.
04
Includes a 26,000-liter underground water tank for water conservation.
05
Integrates solar panels to promote energy self-sufficiency.

### Overview

The Manzil is a single-family residence situated within a contemporary urban context, encompassing a total built-up area of 293 square meters. The design prioritizes flexibility in living spaces while adhering to sustainable design principles and modern building techniques. It focuses on minimizing ecological footprints through strategic environmental considerations and energy efficiency.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial arrangement emphasizes a harmonious flow between indoor and outdoor areas, with primary living spaces—including the entry, living room, dining room, and kitchen—positioned to enhance connectivity among occupants. The layout is structured as follows:

- **Ground Floor Plan:**
- Entry
- Living Room
- Dining Room
- Family Room
- Kitchen
- Server Room
- Garage

- **First Floor Plan:**
- Lobby Area
- Master Suite
- Additional Bedrooms
- Balconies
- Utility Areas

This configuration ensures that communal areas are vibrant and engaging, while private zones maintain tranquility and comfort.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy conservation. Notable materials include:

- **ARC Blocks** for structural integrity,
- **Triple Glazed Windows** to enhance thermal performance,
- **Solar Panels** for renewable energy generation,
- **Recyclable Materials** that support a circular economy.

The design features an earth air tunnel that moderates indoor temperatures by channeling cool air from below ground, enhancing energy efficiency beyond conventional systems. Additionally, an underground water tank supports water management efforts, holding 26,000 liters for irrigation and greywater reuse.

The integration of modernist forms and natural materials provides aesthetic appeal while ensuring the residence complements its surroundings. Large windows optimize natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and creating a strong connection to the exterior environment.

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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 18 February 2026

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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