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Perforated Facades and Adaptive Roofs in a Sustainable Residential Community

Perforated Facades and Adaptive Roofs in a Sustainable Residential Community
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Utilizing perforated facades and adaptive roofs for natural ventilation, the design creates a sustainable residential community that prioritizes communal living while respecting the local architectural vernacular.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated facade enhances natural ventilation while maintaining privacy.
02
Adaptive roofs improve indoor climate control through dynamic airflow.
03
Utilizes local clay bricks for thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
04
Central courtyards foster community interaction and social cohesion.
05
Water features integrated for passive cooling and aesthetic appeal.

### Overview

The architectural design project is situated in an area rich with cultural heritage, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and adaptable living arrangements. It is inspired by traditional domestic architecture from the Arab region, particularly reflecting the distinctive characteristics of the United Arab Emirates where urban life coexists with desert landscapes. The design intends to connect historical architectural significance with contemporary functional requirements, addressing environmental considerations in the process.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design emphasizes a cohesive relationship between the built environment and the natural setting, integrating traditional housing typologies with modern amenities. Key elements include a well-structured spatial layout that facilitates intentional flow and usability across different areas. Central courtyards serve as community anchors, promoting social interactions and providing serene spaces for both relaxation and gathering. The project prioritizes functional versatility, allowing spaces to adapt to various uses over time, such as accommodating both formal and informal events, thereby reflecting the dynamic needs of families and communities.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project's sustainability goals. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability while local clay bricks enhance thermal insulation, benefitting internal temperature regulation. Large glass surfaces are utilized to maximize natural light and maintain a visual connection with the external environment, which is essential in a desert context. Additionally, the incorporation of wood adds warmth and texture within the spaces. Outdoor water features, including reflection pools and fountains, enhance the microclimate and introduce an element of tranquility, embodying the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

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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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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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