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Movable Prefabricated Units with Sustainable Solar Integration and Natural Ventilation Features

Movable Prefabricated Units with Sustainable Solar Integration and Natural Ventilation Features
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Movable prefabricated units equipped with solar panels and optimized for natural ventilation create adaptable living spaces that enhance communal interaction while addressing climatic challenges in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable living units can be repositioned along a track system to adapt to seasonal changes.
02
Multiple non-central courtyards promote private outdoor spaces while enhancing community interaction.
03
Solar panels integrated into the roof design provide energy self-sufficiency for the units.
04
Natural ventilation is optimized through elevated positioning and open layout to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
The use of local materials, including wicker and gypsum board, supports environmental sustainability and cultural relevance.

### Overview

Located in Dubai, the Non_Central Courtyards project presents a flexible and sustainable approach to housing that aligns with the cultural, social, and climatic considerations of the region. Departing from the conventional central courtyard design found in traditional Middle Eastern architecture, the project features multiple non-central courtyards to enhance adaptability. This arrangement fosters a network of public, private, and service spaces that encourage diverse social interactions.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural design consists of a series of prefabricated boxes, each designated for specific functions—public, private, and service—allowing for a variety of spatial configurations. The layout emphasizes accessibility, with a central corridor acting as the main circulation route connecting the distinct areas. This corridor not only facilitates movement but also plays a critical role in climate management by optimizing airflow throughout the structure.

### Material Selection

A careful choice of materials enhances both sustainability and functionality. The project incorporates EPDM rubber for insulation, steel plates for structural integrity, gypsum board for internal finishes, and wicker panels that provide aesthetic appeal and promote ventilation. Additionally, solar panels are integrated for renewable energy generation, while rainwater tanks support efficient water management. Transparent glazing maximizes natural light, further contributing to the building's energy efficiency and overall durability.

### Climate Adaptability

Notable features include movable living cubes, equipped with electric motors allowing residents to adjust their living spaces according to climatic conditions and personal preferences. This dynamic aspect showcases adaptability in domestic arrangements. Furthermore, the elevated positioning of the cubes facilitates natural airflow for temperature regulation, complemented by dual-layer roofs that reduce heat transfer. The design encourages green integration through multiple courtyards, enhancing biodiversity and providing residents with private outdoor areas.

### Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design. The physical configuration promotes natural air circulation to cool interior spaces without reliance on mechanical systems. Water management is optimized through a rainwater collection system, while solar panels enable on-site energy generation, reflecting a commitment to minimizing dependence on nonrenewable resources. The project illustrates a progressive architectural framework that balances contemporary living with environmental stewardship and community connectivity.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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