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Natural Stone Cladding and Wind Catchers Shape a Sustainable Residential Villa in Dubai

Natural Stone Cladding and Wind Catchers Shape a Sustainable Residential Villa in Dubai
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Incorporating traditional wind catchers and dynamic mashrabiya screens, the villa utilizes local sandstone and triple-glazed windows for energy efficiency, providing a modern and sustainable family residence in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind catchers for natural ventilation.
02
Features adjustable mashrabiya screens for solar control.
03
Constructed with local sandstone for cultural relevance.
04
Utilizes triple-glazed windows for enhanced energy efficiency.
05
Offers a flexible layout for family privacy and interaction.

## Project Overview
The Eco Manzil is a villa located in Dubai, designed to integrate the cultural traditions of Emirati architecture with modern design considerations. The project addresses functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic value, while offering an environmentally conscious living solution suited to the region's climate. The spatial organization features distinct zones for family and guests, enhancing privacy while promoting communal interaction.

### Design and Performance Features
The architecture incorporates traditional elements such as the wind catcher (barjeel), combined with modern technologies like solar panels and dynamic louvers. The design prioritizes passive cooling and energy efficiency, ensuring comfortable indoor conditions. Key features include:
- **Wind Catcher**: Facilitates natural ventilation by directing airflow into living spaces, enhancing indoor comfort.
- **Dynamic Mashrabiya Screens**: Adjustable screens provide shade and control solar gain, improving livability while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
- **Triple Glazing Windows**: Enhance energy efficiency by minimizing thermal gains while allowing ample natural light.

### Material Selection
Material choices for Eco Manzil reflect local traditions while meeting contemporary building standards. Key materials include:
- **Sandstone**: Serves as exterior cladding, reinforcing regional identity.
- **Glass**: Utilized in triple-glazed format for superior energy efficiency.
- **Dynamic Louvers**: Constructed from lightweight materials for ease of adjustment.
- **Insulated Concrete Form (ICF)**: Supports high thermal performance and reduces energy loss.
- **Coral Stone**: Employed for façade elements, reinforcing cultural connections.
- **GRP Water Tank and Pump**: Provide efficient water storage solutions.

This material palette not only enhances structural integrity but also supports sustainable practices, utilizing local resources and modern technologies.

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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
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
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