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Natural Harmony Achieved Through Earth-Based Materials and Organic Forms in Desert Living

Natural Harmony Achieved Through Earth-Based Materials and Organic Forms in Desert Living
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Utilizing adobe and rammed earth, the design seamlessly integrates organic forms with local climate considerations to create a sustainable residence that fosters indoor-outdoor living in the Tunisian desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local adobe and rammed earth to enhance thermal regulation in a desert climate.
02
Incorporates windcatchers to facilitate natural ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
03
Features organic shapes that mimic the surrounding desert landscape, promoting visual harmony.
04
Includes large glass openings for abundant natural light while minimizing glare and heat.
05
Design integrates dedicated light pipes, channeling daylight into interior spaces for year-round illumination.

## Overview

Located in the oasis of Chebika, Tunisia, the project reflects a thoughtful synthesis of contemporary and traditional architectural principles. The intent is to create a home that fosters a strong connection with the surrounding desert landscape while prioritizing occupant comfort and well-being.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout features fluid, organic shapes that depart from conventional designs. Functional areas include a living/dining space that serves as a central gathering point and a transitional area that enhances cross-ventilation between indoor and outdoor environments. A dedicated office space provides a tranquil work area, while the bedroom and bathroom are designed as personal retreats, ensuring privacy and comfort. This non-linear arrangement is inspired by the surrounding topography, promoting a dynamic flow throughout the spaces.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration

The design employs a combination of traditional Tunisian building materials and modern sustainable practices. Earth-based materials, such as adobe and rammed earth, are utilized for walls to enhance thermal comfort and stability. Concrete elements contribute to the structural integrity and durability of the home, while large glass openings facilitate natural light and visual connectivity to the exterior. Wood elements in windows and furnishings introduce warmth and a tactile quality to the interior spaces.

Innovative strategies for natural light and ventilation are central to the design. Windcatchers are incorporated to capture cooling breezes and improve indoor air quality, while strategically positioned light pipes channel natural light into the interiors. This approach not only optimizes illumination with varying qualities of light throughout the day but also minimizes glare, enhancing the overall living experience.

The project stands as a demonstration of how modern design can harmoniously coexist with traditional techniques, reinforcing the relationship between the built environment and its natural context.

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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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