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Sustainable Family Living with Hemp-Lime Walls and Natural Ventilation Solutions

Sustainable Family Living with Hemp-Lime Walls and Natural Ventilation Solutions
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Combining hemp-lime construction with natural ventilation techniques, the design fosters an energy-efficient environment conducive to multi-generational living in Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with expandable modular units to accommodate evolving family needs.
02
Incorporates wind towers for enhanced natural ventilation and reduced energy consumption.
03
Utilizes hemp-lime concrete for superior insulation and sustainable construction.
04
Features a culturally inspired facade with geometric patterns for solar shading.
05
Employs processed cork flooring for comfort and eco-friendly sourcing.

## Project Overview

Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the design of "A House for Future" explores concepts of modern residential living to meet the needs of a growing, multi-generational population. This project integrates functional and sustainable elements with a focus on enhancing family connectivity while accommodating various lifestyles. The innovative design aims to redefine traditional notions of home, promoting generosity in living spaces without sacrificing privacy.

### Adaptable Spatial Configuration

The residential design employs a modular approach, enabling flexibility in the configuration of living spaces in response to the evolving dynamics of a family structure. Key features include expandable modules that can adjust the number of bedrooms and communal areas, supporting diverse lifestyle requirements. The layout is organized to create a balance between communal and private spaces, promoting interaction among residents while ensuring personal privacy.

### Energy Efficiency and Climate Responsiveness

The design takes into account the subtropical-arid climate of Dubai by implementing passive design strategies that prioritize sustainability and energy conservation. Key initiatives include:

- **Natural Ventilation**: Wind towers are strategically positioned to facilitate air circulation, reducing the need for mechanical cooling systems.
- **Solar Orientation and Daylight Management**: The facade is oriented to optimize daylight while incorporating shading techniques to mitigate heat gain during peak sunlight hours.
- **Rainwater Harvesting Systems**: Rooftop collection systems channel water to underground storage tanks, promoting water conservation.

These strategies, alongside the implementation of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels, underline the commitment to sustainable building practices.

### Material Selection and Craftsmanship

The material choices reflect an emphasis on environmental responsibility and functional aesthetics. Features include:

1. **Hemp-lime Concrete**: Used for exterior walls, offering excellent insulation and sustainability.
2. **Lime Mortar**: Applied for interior finishes, enhancing indoor air quality through breathability.
3. **Reinforced Concrete**: Ensuring structural integrity across the design.
4. **Processed Cork**: Selected for flooring due to its comfort and ecological sourcing.

This blend of materials balances modern construction techniques with traditional craftsmanship, contributing to the overall sustainability and aesthetic appeal of the home.

### Architectural Features and Technology

Distinctive architectural elements enrich the design, including geometric façade patterns inspired by Islamic traditions that provide both aesthetic quality and functional shading. The emphasis on smart technology allows homeowners to manage lighting, temperature, and security systems through mobile applications, incorporating convenience within the living environment.

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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.

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