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Lattice Screens and Solar Panels Define a Sustainable Family Residence in Dubai

Lattice Screens and Solar Panels Define a Sustainable Family Residence in Dubai
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Characterized by its traditional lattice screens and integrated solar panels, this residence in Dubai offers a sustainable living solution that thoughtfully blends modern design with local heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional mashrabiya screens that enhance privacy and natural ventilation.
02
Features solar panels that contribute to energy self-sufficiency and sustainability.
03
Utilizes a mix of concrete and steel to ensure durability and modern flexibility.
04
Employs a green roof system that supports biodiversity and reduces heat absorption.
05
Design includes expansive glass facades for optimal natural light and outdoor connection.

### Project Overview

The Mashrabiya House, designed for the "Dubai House of the Future Competition," is situated in Dubai, UAE. The design integrates modern sustainability with traditional architectural elements, particularly the mashrabiya, which serves both as a decorative and functional feature providing privacy and climate control. With a total built area of approximately 220 square meters, the house accommodates three bedrooms and is tailored for family living that prioritizes luxury and ecological consciousness. The project aims to meet contemporary living standards while reflecting local cultural narratives and addressing environmental challenges.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout of the Mashrabiya House is carefully organized to enhance functionality and promote a fluid experience between private and communal areas. The ground floor includes expansive communal spaces such as the living room, dining area, and kitchen, which are designed to foster interaction and extend into landscaped outdoor areas. The first floor comprises private zones with bedrooms, each featuring en-suite facilities, thereby ensuring personal privacy while allowing residents to maintain visual connections to the surroundings through strategically placed windows and balconies.

### Sustainable Materiality and Technological Integration

The design implements a diverse array of materials that underscore sustainability and aesthetic integrity. Concrete provides structural stability, while glass elements enhance natural light and visibility, contributing to an airy ambiance. Steel is utilized for its flexibility and modern design attributes, and vegetation is integrated into the façade and rooftop to improve air quality and assist in temperature regulation. Renewable energy sources are harnessed through solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated to promote eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the integration of smart home technology enhances energy efficiency and user convenience, reflecting a progressive approach to residential living.

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The Next House: USA
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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.

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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