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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Sofia Rebelo, Inês Vilares, João Moura
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Community Hub
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design seamlessly integrates sustainable materials to create a multifunctional community hub that fosters collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for optimized structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and daylighting throughout.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to support landscape irrigation and reduce water consumption.
05
Design prioritizes flexible spaces that adapt to community needs and foster collaborative activities.

The project under analysis is a contemporary architectural design that embodies a synthesis of functionality and aesthetics. Situated in a carefully chosen location, it seeks to respond to the environmental and cultural context while adhering to modern architectural principles. The design effectively balances practicality with expressive forms, ensuring that it meets the needs of its users while contributing positively to its surroundings.

With an emphasis on sustainability, the project utilizes a range of materials that not only enhance its visual appeal but also improve durability and energy efficiency. The structural elements are designed with precision, integrating advanced engineering solutions to support its unique form. Furthermore, the site planning reflects an intentional approach to landscape integration, promoting both accessibility and engagement with the natural environment.

Innovative Facade and Material Selection
One of the defining aspects of this project is its inventive facade treatment. The use of [specific materials] creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the building's visual interest while maintaining functionality. The facade acts as a filter between the interior and exterior, regulating natural light and offering varying degrees of transparency. This design choice not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the architecture but also addresses thermal comfort, capitalizing on passive design strategies.

Additionally, the project incorporates local materials that resonate with the cultural identity of the area. This thoughtful selection supports regional economies and promotes sustainability by minimizing transportation-related impacts. The architecture reflects local craftsmanship while showcasing modern techniques, ensuring a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation.

Functional Spaces and Community Focus
The spatial organization prioritizes user experience through flexible layouts that adapt to various functions. Open-plan areas encourage collaborative activities, while designated private spaces ensure comfort and privacy. The design also incorporates outdoor spaces that foster community interaction, providing places for leisure and social gatherings.

The project serves multifaceted purposes, catering to both individual and community needs. By integrating multifunctional spaces and amenities, it enhances the usability of the building while promoting a sense of community. The approach emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that the design accommodates diverse user groups and activities.

This architectural endeavor represents a forward-thinking approach to design, where sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic coherence intersect. The unique aspects of the facade, material selections, and spatial configurations highlight a commitment to innovation while respecting the surrounding context.

For those interested in further exploring the intricacies of this project, please review the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that define this remarkable work of architecture.

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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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