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Gypsum Concrete Walls and Sliding Sunscreens Define a Sustainable Family Residence

Gypsum Concrete Walls and Sliding Sunscreens Define a Sustainable Family Residence
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Gypsum concrete walls and an integrated majlis enhanced by sliding sunscreens create a functional living space designed for family interaction while emphasizing sustainability and local biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gypsum concrete walls provide superior thermal insulation and fire resistance.
02
Sliding sunscreens enhance energy efficiency by regulating natural light and heat gain.
03
The central majlis facilitates community engagement, reflecting cultural traditions.
04
Local flora landscaping promotes biodiversity and integrates the home with its environment.
05
Ample indoor-outdoor connectivity fosters a seamless flow between living spaces and nature.

### Overview
Located on a 450-square-meter plot, the notable residential design integrates elements from traditional architectural forms with contemporary practices. The overall intent is to create a dwelling that meets modern living standards while preserving cultural and social interactions reminiscent of historical homes. The total built area encompasses approximately 300 square meters, organized around a central courtyard that functions as the focal point for both aesthetics and community engagement.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout employs three distinct volumes, each designated for specific functions to enhance privacy and connectivity. The ground floor includes family and service areas, such as a garage and utility spaces, separated from public view. The first floor houses private quarters, including bedrooms, and communal areas that facilitate access to surrounding gardens. On the second floor, an open majlis is designed as a gathering space that reinforces social bonds. The integration of large sliding doors and abundant windows promotes indoor-outdoor connectivity, encourages natural ventilation, and provides ample daylight, contributing to a harmonious living environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The choice of materials is integral to both the aesthetic quality and performance of the structure. External walls made from gypsum-concrete bricks ensure durability and thermal insulation, while the adaptable surface treatment facilitates customization. Glass sliding doors maximize visibility and natural light, complemented by sliding sun screens to manage heat gain efficiently. Landscaping integrates native flora, enhancing biodiversity and air quality. Additionally, solar panels installed on the roof support energy generation, aligning with sustainable design practices that minimize ecological impact.

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The Next House: USA
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MICROHOME 2026
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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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