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Earth Walls and Palm Timber Create a Sustainable Sanctuary with Integrated Courtyards

Earth Walls and Palm Timber Create a Sustainable Sanctuary with Integrated Courtyards
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Utilizing earth walls and palm timber, this residence integrates multiple courtyards to enhance natural ventilation and privacy, providing a comfortable living environment suited for family use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes earth walls for thermal mass and insulation.
02
Incorporates palm timber, highlighting local craftsmanship.
03
Features multiple courtyards for enhanced privacy and ventilation.
04
Includes solar panels integrated into the roof structure.
05
Utilizes lime mortar for durability and environmental sustainability.

### Overview
The Earth Veil House is located in a region characterized by the climatic challenges typical of many Middle Eastern environments. This design prioritizes privacy, sustainability, and a connection to nature, drawing upon local cultural influences and the surrounding landscape. The project aims to create harmonious living spaces that accommodate both traditional practices and contemporary lifestyles.

### Spatial Organization
The spatial configuration of the Earth Veil House features a thoughtful arrangement that accommodates both private and communal areas. The ground floor comprises functional zones, including service areas and leisure spaces, with direct access to exterior gardens. This layout allows for a comfortable family environment while ensuring that communal areas remain accessible. The first floor is designed with identical bedroom modules that function as tranquil retreats, each contributing to a larger ecosystem of open spaces that integrate natural views and elements. Additionally, a basement level dedicated to utility spaces enhances the comfort of the living areas above.

### Material Selection
Materiality plays a crucial role in achieving the project's architectural vision. Key materials include earth, which serves as a primary sustainable building block; palm wood, incorporated to reflect local craftsmanship; and lime mortar, chosen for its durability and insulation properties. Precast concrete slabs support rapid construction timelines, while thermal insulation enhances energy efficiency. Glass is utilized in façade openings to allow natural light infiltration, further exemplifying the design’s commitment to sustainability and thermal comfort.

Natural elements are woven into the architectural design through three distinct courtyards that enhance privacy while improving air quality and reducing heat. These integrations, along with passive design strategies such as natural light and airflow utilization, solar panels, and wind catchers, demonstrate a responsive approach to environmental challenges and focus on long-term viability.

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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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.

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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