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Embracing Natural Textures with Adobe Bricks and Timber Screens in Desert Living
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With natural adobe bricks and timber screens seamlessly integrated into the design, the residence harmonizes with the desert environment, offering functional living spaces that prioritize sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural adobe bricks provide thermal regulation suited for the desert climate.
02
Timber screens offer privacy while enhancing airflow and shading.
03
An expansive rooftop terrace integrates greenery with living spaces.
04
The design mimics the organic forms of sand dunes, fostering a sense of place.
05
Communal courtyards encourage social interaction and community engagement.

### Overview
Located in the shifting desert landscape of the UAE, the design integrates contemporary architecture with a deep respect for the region's cultural heritage and natural environment. The intent is to create a living space that balances aesthetic sophistication with functional needs, resonating with the surrounding geography while accommodating modern lifestyles.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project's material palette emphasizes both aesthetic qualities and functionality, specifically tailored to address the challenges of the desert climate. Adobe bricks have been selected for their thermal regulation properties, aligning with traditional building practices. Natural plaster enhances interior warmth and fosters a connection to the environment. Additionally, timber screens provide shade and privacy, while glass panels facilitate the entry of natural light and offer expansive views of the desert landscape. The integration of metal frameworks introduces a modern structural element, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability and occupant comfort.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The spatial arrangement is meticulously designed to enhance interaction while maintaining privacy. The ground floor features a vibrant living area and a formal sitting space, with an outdoor courtyard that extends the interior, integrating greenery for improved quality of life. The first floor houses private quarters, allowing for family connections while ensuring individual privacy. The upper levels culminate in a landscaped roof terrace, providing additional communal and relaxation opportunities. This thoughtful spatial planning not only contributes to an engaging living experience but also fosters a sense of community among residents.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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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

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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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