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Rooftop Gardens and Local Stone Embrace in Sustainable Urban Living

Rooftop Gardens and Local Stone Embrace in Sustainable Urban Living
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Local stone structures integrate with rooftop gardens to create a self-sustaining community focused on affordable housing and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Local stone is sourced from adjacent mountainous regions, minimizing transportation impacts.
02
Rooftop gardens are designed to provide fresh produce directly accessible to residents.
03
Arched pathways enhance natural ventilation while offering shaded communal spaces.
04
Multi-functional units can adapt to various family structures and communal activities.
05
An automated irrigation system efficiently manages water use across the agricultural spaces.

## Overview

This project focuses on the development of a housing and agricultural concept in Dubai, addressing the increasing demand for affordable housing and sustainable food sources in rapidly growing urban areas. The design emphasizes the integration of agricultural spaces within residential environments, aiming to foster community well-being and enhance social connectivity.

## Structural Configuration

The design incorporates symmetrical, cube-like structures complemented by vaulted arches, establishing a spatial arrangement that balances utility and aesthetic appeal. A central pyramid-like structure not only serves as a focal point but also functions as a vital source for irrigation, using both natural systems and technological advancements. Arched walkways enhance structural integrity while providing shaded paths that promote movement and social interaction, drawing upon elements of traditional Middle Eastern architecture.

### Agricultural Integration

Each residential unit features an extensive rooftop garden, enabling residents to cultivate fresh produce and reduce food costs. This design connection between living spaces and agricultural activities is further enhanced by accessible stairways. An automatic irrigation system efficiently manages water flow, utilizing recycled water from the gardens to support sustainable practices. The layout is arranged to encourage resource sharing among community members, fostering collaboration and cooperation.

## Materiality and Economic Viability

Local stone is predominantly used in the construction, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact while establishing a strong connection with the surrounding landscape. Additional materials include durable concrete for structural elements and metal frameworks that ensure lightweight yet robust support. The project positions itself as an economically viable solution by reducing housing costs, which can lead to lower prices for goods and services in the community, thereby enhancing overall economic resilience. This strategy aligns with principles of economic theory that link housing affordability to increased consumer spending power and collective wealth.

The design ultimately presents a comprehensive model for urban living that addresses contemporary challenges related to housing shortages and food security, promoting a balanced lifestyle that supports both mental and physical well-being.

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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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