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Masonry Shade Screens and Limestone Facades in a Sustainable Family Dwelling

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Masonry Shade Screens and Limestone Facades in a Sustainable Family Dwelling
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Constructed with limestone facades and sheltered by intricately designed masonry shade screens, the dwelling emphasizes sustainable living through natural ventilation and energy efficiency in a family-oriented environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates traditional masonry shade screens for enhanced privacy and ventilation.
02
Utilizes limestone for natural insulation and aesthetic continuity with the environment.
03
Incorporates modular design elements to accommodate future expansion needs.
04
Features strategic roof overhangs to optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain.
05
Includes water features for passive cooling and ecological harmony with the site.

### Overview
The Eco Cube is located within a community-focused environment, emphasizing sustainable living through a design that integrates traditional Arabic architectural elements with contemporary innovations. The building aims to create a living space that fosters connections with both nature and the community, while offering low-energy-cost solutions for residents.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction
The spatial design of the Eco Cube is strategically organized to balance privacy and communal engagement. Divided into distinct volumes, the layout incorporates semi-outdoor spaces and mezzanines that encourage interaction with the surroundings while offering personal retreats. Each level is designed for accessibility, with vertical circulation enhancing movement throughout the structure.

The ground floor includes utility spaces such as a garage and an entrance, while the second floor features living areas with large windows that facilitate natural light. Additional private bedrooms and a shared bathroom occupy the third floor, providing expansive views of the landscape. Mezzanine levels serve as versatile areas for both communal gatherings and utility functions, maintaining an integrated flow within the home.

### Material Selection and Environmental Strategy
The material choices reflect a dedication to sustainability and local resource use. Limestone clay is employed for its insulating properties, while travertine marble provides durability for flooring and surfaces. The masonry used in the mashrabiyya not only contributes to aesthetic detailing but also serves a functional purpose by providing shade and air circulation. Additionally, large glass windows optimize natural light, reducing reliance on artificial illumination.

Innovative strategies are embedded in the design to enhance energy efficiency. A wind tower facilitates natural ventilation, while integrated water features assist in temperature regulation. Solar panels on the roof contribute to the building's energy needs, and a green roof promotes insulation and biodiversity, aligning with the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.

These elements, combined with the modular nature of the design catering to future expansion, underscore a thoughtful approach to residential architecture that respects cultural heritage while addressing contemporary sustainability challenges.

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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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