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Earth Wall Construction with Adaptive Shading and Integrated Native Landscaping

Earth Wall Construction with Adaptive Shading and Integrated Native Landscaping
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An earth wall forms the backbone of a sustainable residence that utilizes adaptive shading and integrates indigenous landscaping to create a comfortable family home in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
An earth wall provides thermal mass and natural cooling, adapting to Dubai’s climate.
02
Retractable solar fabric panels dynamically adjust for optimal shading throughout the day.
03
Integrated indigenous landscaping enhances biodiversity and reduces water usage.
04
The Intelligent Wind & Light Tower captures natural breezes, minimizing reliance on air conditioning.
05
Openable glass elements maximize natural light and ventilation while connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.

### Project Overview

Located in Dubai, this family home is designed as a sustainable and eco-friendly residence integrating advanced technologies with a focus on creating a livable micro-climate. The intent of the design is to enhance comfort while respecting the surrounding environment, establishing a forward-looking concept that addresses both ecological and cultural considerations prevalent in the region.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Integration

The residence features a multi-level layout that promotes interaction among family members, with communal spaces—such as the living room, family hub, and kitchen—situated on the ground floor, while private sleeping areas are located above. This arrangement fosters connectivity and enhances the overall living experience. Additionally, the design encourages community engagement through the clustering of units to form neighborhoods, complete with shared gardens and pathways that facilitate social interaction among residents. A “Home Garden” is included within the design to promote agricultural sustainability and enhance community wellness.

### Material and Environmental Strategy

The home employs a selection of materials that reflect sustainability objectives and regional context. Earthy textured concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing thermal regulation and strength. Solar cell fabric panels are utilized in retractable shade structures, adapting dynamically to varying sunlight conditions. Openable glass elements optimize natural ventilation and allow natural light to penetrate the interior, while indigenous plants, such as *Azadirachta indica* (Neem tree), are integrated into the landscaping to enhance biodiversity and provide essential shading.

The design incorporates innovative features to address the local climatic challenges, including an “Intelligent Wind & Light Tower” that utilizes sensors to harness natural cooling from ambient winds. Retractable sunshades further enhance energy efficiency by adapting to sunlight angles, significantly reducing reliance on air conditioning and promoting a more sustainable living environment.

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The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

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
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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