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Passive Cooling Through Wind Towers Enhanced by Textured Concrete and Natural Timber

Passive Cooling Through Wind Towers Enhanced by Textured Concrete and Natural Timber
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Utilizing passive cooling through strategically designed wind towers and a textured concrete façade, this residence integrates natural timber elements to create a comfortable and environmentally conscious living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional wind towers to enhance natural ventilation and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
02
Incorporates textured concrete as a primary façade element for increased thermal mass and aesthetic variation.
03
Features an innovative layout that integrates private spaces with open communal areas to foster social interaction.
04
Employs natural timber elements, including plywood boards, for interior partitions that allow flexibility in space usage.
05
Includes photovoltaic solar panels integrated into the design for energy efficiency and sustainability.

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the Wind Tower House is designed to reflect the region's rich cultural heritage while accommodating modern residential needs. The architectural approach emphasizes traditional Emirati motifs, particularly the wind tower, a historical feature known for its passive cooling ability. This design aims to create a dialogue between historical architectural practices and contemporary living.

## Spatial Organization

The layout of the Wind Tower House is structured around a central axis, which serves to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Upon entry, guests are received in a lobby that effectively delineates between private and communal spaces, ensuring a thoughtful circulation throughout the residence. The private quarters, comprised of bedrooms and amenities, are strategically positioned on the first floor to maximize privacy while maintaining convenient access to shared areas. Additionally, the incorporation of outdoor yards and gardens fosters a connection with nature, which is particularly significant in the local climate.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection embodies a balance of traditional aesthetics and modern sustainability practices. Concrete is employed for its structural durability and minimal upkeep, while timber adds warmth to the interior spaces. Plywood boards are integrated for design flexibility and complement the walls, further reinforcing the project's commitment to cohesive architectural forms. Photovoltaic solar panels are installed on external surfaces to enhance energy efficiency. Traditional render finishes link the design to the regional vernacular, creating a cohesive sense of place. Notably, the wind towers not only serve as visually distinctive elements but also facilitate natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The integration of shading devices and blinds manages solar heat, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the home.

These features collectively highlight the Wind Tower House's commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance, establishing a forward-thinking residence that honors its contextual roots.

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

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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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