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Wind Towers and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Family Home Constructed with AAC Blocks and Wood

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Wind Towers and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Family Home Constructed with AAC Blocks and Wood
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Constructed with aerated autoclaved concrete and warm wood accents, this family dwelling integrates wind towers and natural ventilation to create a sustainable living environment that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using aerated autoclaved concrete, providing enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates wind towers for natural ventilation and passive cooling.
03
Features a central courtyard that fosters family interaction and outdoor living.
04
Utilizes locally sourced wood elements to connect the structure with its environment.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that can adapt to the evolving needs of the family.

## Overview
Located in the urban landscape of the United Arab Emirates, the project embodies a contemporary interpretation of traditional Emirati architecture, specifically drawing inspiration from the *khayma*, a tent-like structure that emphasizes community and family gatherings. This design seeks to merge modernity with cultural heritage while promoting sustainability and responding to the evolving lifestyle of families in Dubai.

### Spatial Configuration
The architectural layout is carefully crafted to facilitate both communal and private interactions. Central to the design is the *Al Khayma place*, which serves as a gathering hub for family members, reflecting a thoughtful balance between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The incorporation of traditional *courtyard houses* enhances interpersonal connections while ensuring privacy in designated areas.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A diverse range of materials has been selected to support the project's identity and functional aims. Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC) blocks are employed for their environmental efficiency, while various shades of wood create an inviting atmosphere and contribute to the aesthetic with wooden *moucharabieh* features that enhance privacy. The use of white plaster adds brightness to interiors, and double-glazed glass improves thermal insulation and energy efficiency. Key sustainable elements include rainwater harvesting systems, photovoltaic panels, and natural ventilation methods inspired by traditional wind towers, all adapted to address the challenges posed by the desert climate.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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