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Sustainable Home with Photovoltaics and Natural Wood Elements Embracing Cultural Heritage

Sustainable Home with Photovoltaics and Natural Wood Elements Embracing Cultural Heritage
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Emphasizing cultural heritage through the use of reclaimed wood and integrated photovoltaic systems, the villa redefines sustainable living while providing a comfortable family residence within an arid climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employed reclaimed wood to enhance sustainability and connect with local heritage.
02
Incorporated photovoltaic panels to reduce energy consumption and enhance environmental efficiency.
03
Utilized a bent A-frame design to optimize airflow and natural light within the living spaces.
04
Integrated water features within the landscape to create a cooling microclimate around the villa.
05
Implemented innovative shading devices that enhance comfort while maintaining privacy and aesthetic appeal.

### Overview

Located in the metropolitan area of Dubai, the Ghaf Oasis Villa integrates architectural design with cultural significance and sustainable practices. The design draws from local vernacular elements, reflecting the region's identity while addressing environmental context. Emphasizing comfort and privacy, the villa's conceptual framework draws inspiration from the Ghaf tree and the historical reliance on natural resources, manifesting in features that enhance user experience within the desert climate.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The layout of the villa is organized into clearly defined zones, balancing private and communal spaces to promote family living. Key areas such as the garage, living spaces, and utility sections are organized to facilitate optimal flow and functionality. Innovative shading screens contribute to comfort while enhancing aesthetics, allowing natural light to filter through spaces like the lobby and living areas. The orientation of the villa is designed to maximize privacy, aligning with the cultural expectations prevalent in the region.

### Material Choices and Sustainability

The selection of materials is characterized by durability and sustainability, including reinforced concrete for structural integrity, large glass openings for natural light, and reclaimed wood which connects to cultural heritage. Photovoltaic panels are integrated to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint. The use of prefabricated concrete blocks allows for modular expansion, ensuring adaptability for future needs while maintaining longevity in the face of climate challenges. Light color applications contribute to thermal performance by reflecting heat, further enhancing the villa's sustainability profile.

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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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