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Fabric Encased Spaces with Modular Design and Resilience Against Sandstorms

Fabric Encased Spaces with Modular Design and Resilience Against Sandstorms
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Modular sections protected by fabric tents provide adaptability and resilience to climatic challenges, creating a versatile residential space that meets the evolving needs of urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for easy expansion or reduction of living space.
02
Fabric tents on the exterior provide protection against sandstorms.
03
Innovative use of glass maximizes natural light while blending indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
The bent A-frame design enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Sustainable building materials were prioritized, including concrete and eco-friendly finishes.

### Overview

Located in an urban area of Dubai, the design prioritizes modularity and adaptability as responses to contemporary living challenges and environmental factors, notably the prevalence of sandstorms. The objective is to create a home that can evolve in size and function over time while maintaining its structural and aesthetic integrity.

### Spatial Strategy and User Adaptability

The architectural layout features open, flexible spaces tailored to modern lifestyles. The ground floor includes a centralized living room designed for social interaction, alongside an integrated kitchen and dining area that promotes communal living. A flexible room provides versatility for various uses, ensuring the space can adapt as the needs of the occupants change. On the second floor, private quarters are designed for comfort and privacy, supplemented by a designated office space to accommodate remote work trends.

### Material Selection and Environmental Resilience

The project incorporates a strategic selection of materials to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. Reinforced concrete is utilized for structural integrity, while glass elements maximize natural light and establish a visual connection to the outdoors. Innovative fabric tents are integrated to mitigate the impact of sandstorms, providing a protective barrier against environmental elements. The modular design framework allows for the addition or removal of individual units, offering an unprecedented level of customization for residents and setting a precedent for future residential architecture.

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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
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.

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