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Perforated Facade and Solar Integration in a Desert Residence

Perforated Facade and Solar Integration in a Desert Residence
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The use of a perforated GFRC facade and integrated solar panels enhances energy efficiency while maintaining cooling in a family-oriented residence designed for the desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a perforated GFRC facade for effective solar shading.
02
Incorporates a water harvesting system to support landscape irrigation.
03
Features a Majlis serving as a cultural gathering space within the home.
04
Designed for adaptability, allowing for future space expansion.
05
Integrates solar panels for renewable energy generation.

## Overview

Located in Dubai, UAE, the Green House project exemplifies a contemporary architectural design that addresses practical living requirements while remaining sensitive to the regional climate. The design intent focuses on enhancing family living through an approach that integrates sustainable architectural practices and cultural values. The project emphasizes community interactions and environmental stewardship, aiming to provide an ideal living space suited to the needs of modern families in an arid environment.

### Climate and Spatial Strategy

The design carefully considers Dubai's high temperatures and low humidity, utilizing features such as strategically placed voids that enhance natural ventilation. Lightweight materials are employed to minimize heat gain, contributing to a comfortable internal environment. The spatial organization is thoughtfully arranged to promote family cohesion, with flexible areas that can adapt over time and options for future expansion. The ground floor includes communal spaces such as a Majlis for gatherings, alongside seamlessly connected kitchen and dining areas that facilitate indoor-outdoor living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Sustainability is a core component of the design, with an emphasis on locally sourced and environmentally friendly materials. The structure primarily incorporates reinforced concrete, which offers strength and thermal mass, while lightweight glass fiber reinforced concrete is utilized for the façade, providing aesthetic appeal without excessive weight. Additionally, the building features energy-efficient solar panels for renewable energy generation and a water harvesting system with a 1000-liter underground tank to promote resource conservation. The innovative use of materials not only reduces the overall carbon footprint but also enhances the building's functionality and resilience within its climate context.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
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
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 18 February 2026

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MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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