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Perforated Mashrabiya Screens and Cooling Brick Systems Define Sustainable Communal Living in Dubai

Perforated Mashrabiya Screens and Cooling Brick Systems Define Sustainable Communal Living in Dubai
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Perforated Mashrabiya screens and a system of cooling bricks create a sustainable environment that promotes communal living while respecting traditional Emirati culture and contemporary design principles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated Mashrabiya screens enhance airflow while maintaining privacy.
02
Cooling brick systems minimize energy use for temperature control.
03
The layout encourages communal gatherings while preserving individual privacy.
04
Laminated marble and artificial timber create durable and aesthetic interiors.
05
Integration of rainwater harvesting supports sustainable water management.

### Architectural Design Report: The Frame

#### Overview
Located in Dubai, UAE, the design of The Frame is a response to the social, cultural, and environmental context of the area. The project seeks to reinterpret communal living spaces by integrating contemporary design principles with traditional Emirati and Islamic values. This architectural approach emphasizes a balance between privacy and social interaction, specifically catering to the needs of Emirati nationals while fostering a spirit of hospitality and community engagement.

#### Materiality and Sustainability
The design employs a diverse array of materials that support both aesthetics and functionality. Concrete forms the structural backbone, providing durability, while perforated mashrabiya screens enhance airflow and privacy. The use of steel frames and windows contributes to structural integrity, complemented by cooling brick systems that assist in temperature regulation. Internally, materials such as laminated marble and artificial timber elevate the visual quality without sacrificing resilience.

Sustainability features are integrated throughout the design. Solar panels harness energy to reduce reliance on traditional power sources, while rainwater harvesting systems promote efficient water usage. The project also employs screening techniques to improve air quality and minimize energy-intensive cooling methods. Collectively, these elements reflect a commitment to eco-friendly practices within the framework of contemporary living.

#### Spatial Planning and User Experience
The spatial configuration prioritizes efficient circulation and natural ventilation, with careful consideration given to sun orientation. This strategic planning mitigates heat exposure while enhancing the overall living experience. The layout includes five bedrooms, expansive communal areas, and dedicated spaces for social gatherings, particularly for women during majlis events. Large gardens and outdoor spaces are designed to encourage interaction and relaxation, allowing for a harmonious integration between the interior and exterior environments. The project brings together elements of greenery and calming landscapes, thereby creating a comforting and inviting atmosphere for its occupants.

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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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