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Wind Tower Design Featuring Electrochromic Glass and Coral Stone in a Sustainable Residential Setting

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Wind Tower Design Featuring Electrochromic Glass and Coral Stone in a Sustainable Residential Setting
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Incorporating a traditional wind tower and electrochromic glass within a sustainable framework, the residence enhances natural cooling and energy efficiency while providing a comfortable family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a traditional wind tower for natural cooling.
02
Utilizes electrochromic glass to optimize daylight and reduce glare.
03
Constructed with locally sourced coral stone for environmental harmony.
04
Features smart home technology for responsive climate control.
05
Designed with expansive communal areas to enhance family interaction.

## Overview

Villa Zephyr is a residence located in Dubai, designed to integrate traditional Emirati architectural elements with modern technology and sustainable practices. This project aims to enhance the daily lives of its inhabitants while prioritizing comfort, efficiency, and cultural relevance. The design reflects a balance between innovation and a respect for the rich heritage of the local community.

## Spatial Organization and Cultural Relevance

The layout of Villa Zephyr emphasizes the communal practices of Emirati culture, featuring large living and dining areas that facilitate social interaction and gatherings. Private bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms provide personal retreats for residents, while dedicated media and open terrace spaces offer opportunities for relaxation and entertainment in a semi-outdoor setting. This zoning strategy reinforces the balance between private and communal life, aligned with the cultural norms prevalent in Emirati society.

## Environmental Considerations and Technological Integration

The material selection is deliberate, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while maintaining functionality in Dubai’s climate. Key materials include concrete for structural stability, marble for durability, and thermal paint to enhance energy efficiency. Notably, the incorporation of a traditional “Barajeel” wind tower enhances natural ventilation, reducing the dependency on artificial cooling systems.

Modern technological features, such as AI-driven HVAC systems and smart irrigation, complement the living experience by optimizing energy consumption and resource management. Additionally, a thoughtfully designed landscape incorporates palm trees and water-efficient planting, creating a natural buffer against heat while supporting sustainability objectives.

Villa Zephyr's architectural aesthetics blend contemporary lines with traditional motifs, utilizing patterned panels for shading that enhance both functionality and visual narrative. This interplay between historical and modern elements contributes to a unified design language while maintaining contextual relevance.

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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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