The Local House
United Arab Emirates
In 2025, Archipelago’s “The Local House” received the Innovation Award in the House of the Future Competition organised by the Government of Dubai. This competition, which attracted entries from over 122 countries, asked architects to envision an affordable, expandable, and forward-thinking prototype home tailored to the evolving needs of Emirati families.
Status: Concept Design
The Local House proposes a replicable model for medium-scale housing in the UAE, with a focus on innovative locally-sourced materials, future-facing environmental strategies, and a respect for local customs, heritage, and architectural traditions.
Social spaces on the ground level are organized around a shaded central courtyard. Thick self-shading walls constructed from an innovative geopolymer concrete help to keep the home cool, while rooftop solar panels take advantage of the UAE’s abundant sunlight to meet household needs.
Traditional notions of procession and privacy are interwoven with contemporary architectural forms to create comfortable spaces for daily family life.
Shaded outdoor gardens and roof terraces make full use of the small urban plot and create opportunities to enjoy the cool evenings and early mornings.