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Thermal Mass Concrete and Natural Stone Enclosure Enhancing Community Connectivity in Urban Living

Thermal Mass Concrete and Natural Stone Enclosure Enhancing Community Connectivity in Urban Living
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The use of thermal mass concrete and a cohesive natural stone enclosure fosters a cooler indoor environment while eliminating traditional setbacks, creating integrated living spaces that enhance community interaction in an urban residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elimination of setbacks creates an integrated urban community layout.
02
Cohesive natural stone enclosure enhances thermal performance.
03
Multiple courtyards promote natural cross-ventilation throughout the space.
04
Incorporation of Barjeel towers for efficient air circulation.
05
Design merges modern techniques with traditional Islamic architectural elements.

### Project Overview

Located in the urban landscape of Dubai, this residential design explores contemporary living in hot climates by integrating traditional architectural principles with innovative solutions. The approach seeks to eliminate conventional setbacks and incorporate a cohesive compound wall to reduce heat exposure while promoting community interaction. The intent is to create a living environment that aligns with modern urban demands without compromising cultural sensibilities.

### Spatial Strategy and Thermal Performance

The design is characterized by the removal of set boundaries between dwellings, leading to an integrated urban fabric that fosters neighborly interactions. The innovative compound wall serves as a thermal buffer, utilizing its mass to regulate indoor temperatures and mitigate the harsh climatic conditions prevalent in Dubai. Additionally, the inclusion of multiple smaller courtyards enhances air circulation and promotes social engagement, ensuring comfortable living spaces throughout different seasons.

### Materiality and Sustainable Approaches

Material selection plays a crucial role in this design, with concrete employed for its thermal mass properties to aid in heat regulation. Reflective glass is utilized to manage light while maintaining views to the exterior, and locally sourced natural stone establishes a connection with the surrounding context. The project emphasizes energy efficiency, prioritizing sustainable practices to minimize energy consumption and promote environmentally conscious living. Vertical elements like Barjeel towers enhance natural ventilation and structural integrity while reinforcing the aesthetic cohesion of the residence.

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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

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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.

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
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