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Natural Ventilation Through Barjeel and Sustainable Stone Cladding in Modern Residential Design

Natural Ventilation Through Barjeel and Sustainable Stone Cladding in Modern Residential Design
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Employing a reimagined Barjeel for natural ventilation and sustainable stone cladding, this residential design merges traditional Emirati architectural elements with modern prefabrication techniques to create a flexible living space for evolving family needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a reimagined Barjeel for effective natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates prefabricated construction methods for reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a central courtyard to promote community interaction and privacy.
04
Utilizes locally sourced materials to enhance cultural relevance and sustainability.
05
Includes flexibility in layout to adapt to changing family needs.

### Concept Overview

Bayt Al Omer, translating to "House of a Lifetime," is situated in the UAE and embodies a thoughtful design that merges contemporary living with the region's cultural heritage. The project's primary focus is on sustainability while encouraging social interaction and the preservation of tradition. By implementing advanced prefabrication techniques, it aims to enhance construction efficiency and minimize environmental impact, effectively responding to the diverse needs of modern family dynamics.

### Prefabricated Construction and Adaptable Design

The use of prefabrication in Bayt Al Omer allows for a significant reduction in construction waste and facilitates a streamlined building process. Components are manufactured in a controlled factory environment, which lessens on-site disruption and expedites overall construction time. This approach addresses pressing environmental concerns while aligning with broader sustainability initiatives.

The architectural layout promotes flexibility, catering to evolving family structures. This adaptable design can accommodate potential expansions without substantial renovations, ensuring privacy and fostering community cohesion. Specific zones are delineated for living, resting, and communal activities, supporting the diverse dynamics of family life.

### Cultural Integration and Materiality

Bayt Al Omer incorporates traditional Emirati design elements, notably the Barjeel, which functions as both a striking architectural feature and a natural cooling system. This integration aids in the preservation of Emirati architectural vernacular while promoting sustainable living principles. The arrangement of spaces includes a central courtyard that enhances airflow and encourages social gatherings, echoing the essence of Emirati hospitality.

Material selection reflects a blend of modern and traditional aesthetics, utilizing stone slip cladding for durability, prefabricated concrete slabs for efficiency, and double-glazing windows to improve thermal performance. Elements such as local wood finishes and glass features are strategically employed to create inviting interiors that establish a strong connection to the surrounding environment. The incorporation of insulation layers further enhances energy efficiency, maintaining comfort while minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems.

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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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