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Hydroponic Systems and Recycled Glass Elements in a Sustainable Community Setting

Hydroponic Systems and Recycled Glass Elements in a Sustainable Community Setting
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Utilizing hydroponic systems and recycled glass, the design integrates sustainable living practices with advanced water management solutions to create a self-sufficient residential community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes integrated hydroponic systems for on-site food production.
02
Features recycled glass components to enhance sustainability.
03
Incorporates vertical wind turbines for renewable energy generation.
04
Employs advanced water harvesting techniques tailored to arid conditions.
05
Design includes a circular layout to promote community interaction.

## Overview

The Shamal House and Crescent Village are architectural initiatives located in Dubai, designed to provide innovative housing solutions that respect traditional artifacts while incorporating modern technologies. The intent is to create sustainable living environments that respond effectively to the region's climatic conditions. This design philosophy is guided by the principle: "Respect the Past, Engineer the Present, Protect the Future."

### Spatial Strategy and Functions

The Shamal House demonstrates a fluid architectural form characterized by soft curves and dynamic facades that facilitate indoor-outdoor interaction while accentuating the significance of water in an arid landscape. The strategic layout promotes energy generation and water conservation, showcasing technologies such as hydroponic gardens and innovative wind catchers. Similarly, the Shamal House Majlis emphasizes social dynamics structured around traditional gatherings, featuring distinct spaces for male and female interactions while employing passive cooling strategies to enhance environmental sustainability. The conceptual framework of Shamal Crescent Village further develops communal living principles, with a circular design that embraces solar and wind energy for self-sufficiency.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices across the designs reflect a commitment to sustainability. The Shamal House utilizes glass fiber reinforced plastic for structural integrity and incorporates recycled materials, such as crushed glass and plastic-infused asphalt, which contribute to energy efficiency. In the Shamal House Majlis, the integration of glass elements with recycled plastics continues this sustainable approach. The Shamal Crescent Village features solar panels and water-resistant materials, ensuring durability in response to climatic changes. The Burj Shamal's design emphasizes thermal efficiency through enhanced glass facades and includes hydroponic nurseries to promote both aesthetics and ecological considerations, thereby reinforcing the commitment to innovative, sustainable architecture.

### Design Innovations

Key design innovations include the implementation of vertical wind turbines that facilitate efficient energy production, hydroponic systems for enhanced residential food production, and integrated water harvesting solutions that capture and purify rainwater, minimizing waste. These elements reflect a robust approach to addressing the challenges posed by the local environment, ensuring resilience and sustainability in urban living.

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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.

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