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Earth Walls Integrated with Green Roofs in a Modular Family Residence

Earth Walls Integrated with Green Roofs in a Modular Family Residence
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Integrating thick earth walls with green roofs, this modular residence enhances thermal performance and energy efficiency while adapting to the needs of a contemporary Emirati family.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates thick earth walls for enhanced thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes green roofs to improve insulation and promote biodiversity.
03
Features a modular design allowing for future adaptability and extensions.
04
Incorporates a double skin facade to optimize natural ventilation and shading.
05
Employs locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact and support regional economies.

## Project Overview
The Oasis: House of the Future is situated in Al Ain, a city notable for its cultural heritage and arid climate. The design prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsiveness while addressing the contemporary needs of Emirati families. By integrating traditional values with modern technological advancements, the project aims to create a residential environment that fosters community and supports evolving lifestyles.

## Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout is intentionally organized to accommodate various family dynamics through distinct zones for service, semi-public, and private areas. Courtyards and communal spaces are incorporated to promote social interaction among residents, reflecting the strengths of the extended family model prevalent in Emirati culture. Additionally, the adaptable design allows for flexibility in spatial configurations, enabling modifications that align with changing family requirements.

## Material Selection and Environmental Integration
The project employs a range of carefully selected materials that contribute to its sustainability objectives. Recyclable mesh is utilized for the facade, enhancing natural shading while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Timber finishes add warmth to the interior spaces, while solar photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, promoting energy efficiency. Thick earth walls and double skin facades enhance thermal performance, and green roofs serve both insulation and ecological functions. These choices reflect a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while ensuring the building performs effectively in the local climate.

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

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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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