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Sustainable Shell Structure Featuring Sand Blocks and Natural Ventilation for Modern Living

Sustainable Shell Structure Featuring Sand Blocks and Natural Ventilation for Modern Living
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With a distinctive shell structure crafted from locally sourced sand blocks and enhanced by natural ventilation, the design optimally integrates modern living with sustainable practices for a contemporary family residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Distinctive shell form enhances energy efficiency and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes locally sourced sand blocks for sustainable construction.
03
Incorporates a grey water recycling system for resource management.
04
Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed openings.
05
Outdoor living seamlessly integrated with indoor spaces via terraces.

### Project Overview
Located in Dubai, the development focuses on integrating modern living with sustainable architectural practices. It is designed to meet the demands of contemporary lifestyles, particularly the growing trend of remote work. The intent is to create a living environment that blends functionality with aesthetic value while respecting the cultural and environmental context of the region.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout is based on a circular design, promoting openness and fluidity. The ground floor includes a central living area that connects to outdoor spaces, featuring a terrace and pool to enhance indoor-outdoor living. This level also houses communal areas such as the kitchen and living room, facilitating interaction among residents. On the first floor, four bedrooms are configured to prioritize privacy, complemented by shared spaces like dressing areas and bathrooms. Natural light and ventilation are optimized through strategically sized windows and circular openings. The basement serves practical purposes, incorporating utility areas and advanced water recycling systems to enhance sustainability.

### Material Usage
A combination of local and contemporary materials has been selected to reflect the architectural heritage of the region while ensuring modern performance. Key materials include wooden louvers for shading and aesthetic appeal, sustainable sand blocks for effective thermal mass, tempered securit glass for safety and light enhancement, and green concrete to incorporate recycled materials in construction. Additionally, biophilic design principles are applied through the inclusion of natural plants, which improve indoor air quality and overall aesthetics.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 18 February 2026

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Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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Early bird registration deadline 26 February 2026

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