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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Defining Sustainable Community Spaces

Authors:
Beata Romowska, Nikola Gierczak, Magdalena Różalska, Milena Szwemmer
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Defining Sustainable Community Spaces
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a contemporary sustainable space that fosters community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views.
04
Integrates landscaped areas that promote biodiversity and user engagement.
05
Includes modular elements that allow for future adaptability and functionality.

The architectural project under analysis exemplifies a thoughtful integration of form and function, reflecting a contemporary approach to design within its geographical context. The structure is strategically situated to harmonize with its surroundings, utilizing its site characteristics to enhance both aesthetic and functional aspects.

The overall function of the building is multifaceted, accommodating various activities that foster community interaction and engagement. The layout is designed to facilitate movement and interaction, with defined zones that cater to different user needs while maintaining an open and inviting atmosphere.

One notable characteristic of this project is its emphasis on sustainability. The design incorporates energy-efficient systems, natural ventilation, and materials that minimize environmental impact. This not only underscores the architects’ commitment to ecological considerations but also reflects a growing trend in contemporary architecture towards sustainability.

Spatial organization within the project is carefully executed, with designated areas that support both public and private activities. The flow between spaces is intuitive, guiding occupants through the building while encouraging social interaction. Large, well-placed openings provide natural light, reducing dependence on artificial lighting and creating a more pleasant interior environment.

Materiality plays a crucial role in defining the project’s character. The design utilizes a combination of materials that include reinforced concrete, glass, and sustainably sourced timber. Each material has been selected for its aesthetic properties and performance characteristics, ensuring durability while contributing to the overall visual language of the structure.

Unique design elements include a modular façade that allows for customization based on seasonal changes or community needs. This adaptability sets the project apart from other similar designs, responding dynamically to its environment and user requirements. Furthermore, landscaped areas are integrated throughout the design, enhancing the visual appeal while also contributing to biodiversity.

In discussing the architectural ideas presented in this project, it is clear that there is a strong emphasis on connectivity, both within the building and to the surrounding environment. Outdoor spaces are seamlessly integrated, offering areas for relaxation and interaction. This design approach promotes a sense of community and encourages environmental stewardship.

For those interested in exploring this architectural project further, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs utilized in this project will offer deeper insights into its conception and execution. The unique design methodologies employed here serve as an instructive example within the field of contemporary architecture, showcasing how thoughtful design can engage with and respond to both functionality and the surrounding context.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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