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Passive Cooling Through Wind Towers and Rammed Earth in a Modern Family Residence

Passive Cooling Through Wind Towers and Rammed Earth in a Modern Family Residence
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Incorporating wind towers and rammed earth construction, this modern residence achieves effective passive cooling while fostering a sense of community through its thoughtfully designed shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates traditional wind towers to enhance natural cooling throughout the interior.
02
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for superior thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features an interconnected layout designed to foster communal living among residents.
04
Employs breeze blocks for both structural integrity and artistic light modulation.
05
Integrates photovoltaic systems seamlessly into the design for energy efficiency.

# Analytical Report on Villa Nasim

## Overview

Villa Nasim is situated in Dubai, an area characterized by its historical significance and contemporary urbanization. This residential design seeks to address the needs of modern occupants while integrating elements of traditional architecture. The intent is to foster a living environment that balances communal interaction with personal privacy, reflecting the dynamics of contemporary life within a culturally rich context.

## Spatial Configuration

The villa's spatial organization emphasizes a thoughtful distribution of zones dedicated to various functions, including communal gathering, relaxation, and gardening. The ground floor is designed with an open plan that enhances natural light flow, creating an interconnected environment that promotes social interaction. Private areas are strategically positioned alongside courtyards and terraces, ensuring both accessibility and intimacy. The first floor includes private sleeping quarters that provide a retreat-like atmosphere while maintaining visual links to the external landscape.

## Environmental Adaptation

The design incorporates passive cooling techniques that align with sustainable architectural practices. Features such as wind towers have been integrated to capture and direct natural breezes throughout the residence, thereby reducing dependency on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, surrounding landscaping not only enhances visual appeal but also contributes to temperature regulation, fostering a microclimate that supports comfortable living conditions.

## Materiality and Aesthetic Considerations

The selection of materials reflects both sustainability and local craftsmanship. Key materials include breeze blocks for enhanced ventilation, textured render for tactile engagement, and rammed earth for thermal regulation. The villa also employs a timber grid system, sustainably sourced, to support structural integrity. A distinct aesthetic is achieved through the use of traditional Arabic motifs and modern design principles, featuring arches, intricate latticework, and ample fenestration. This thoughtful combination allows Villa Nasim to resonate with its cultural identity while offering contemporary living comforts.

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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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