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Natural Stone Facade with Solar Panels and Indoor-Outdoor Courtyard in Sustainable Emirati Home

Natural Stone Facade with Solar Panels and Indoor-Outdoor Courtyard in Sustainable Emirati Home
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Emphasizing a natural stone facade and innovative solar panel integration, this sustainable Emirati residence incorporates a central courtyard to foster community interactions while ensuring functional living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a central courtyard to enhance airflow and light throughout the residence.
02
Incorporates local stone for the facade, reflecting regional architectural heritage.
03
Features extensive use of solar panels integrated into the roof for energy sustainability.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural elements to reduce carbon footprint.
05
Employs traditional shading devices to minimize solar heat gain while maintaining views.

### Project Overview

Located in the Emirates, the residential design emphasizes a blend of cultural heritage and modern architectural principles. The intent is to create a space that reflects local traditions while incorporating contemporary design features. This project prioritizes thoughtful spatial arrangements, sustainable materials, and climate-responsive strategies.

### Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout focuses on establishing a central courtyard, designed to balance community interaction and individual privacy. This space acts as both a social hub and a natural retreat, promoting indoor-outdoor engagement. The building's facade orientation defines the separation between public and private areas, enhancing user experience. Within the site plan, designated zones include a services block that minimizes noise and odors, a Majlis central to social functions, and gardens that promote relaxation and connection with nature.

### Material Selection

The project utilizes a diverse palette of materials that meet aesthetic and functional requirements. Concrete forms the structure's base, providing durability and thermal mass. Extensive use of glass enhances natural lighting and visual transparency, while natural stone references traditional Emirati architecture. Wood elements add warmth, and aluminum offers modern durability. This cohesive material strategy reinforces a contemporary design language interwoven with cultural significance.

### Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainable design elements are integral to minimizing energy consumption. The building's massing is optimized to reduce solar gain while facilitating natural airflow for ventilation. Solar panels are strategically integrated into the roof, contributing to renewable energy generation. Enhanced cross-ventilation techniques throughout the structure ensure a comfortable indoor environment, responding to the region's climate 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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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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