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Cantilevered Balconies and Locally Sourced Wood Reinforce Living Spaces on Coastal Cliffs

Cantilevered Balconies and Locally Sourced Wood Reinforce Living Spaces on Coastal Cliffs
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Cantilevered balconies extend above the rugged coastline, seamlessly integrating locally sourced wood and concrete to create an immersive living space that fosters connection with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered balconies maximize ocean views while enhancing structural stability.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide rapid construction and sustainability benefits.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer a unique aesthetic while improving fire resistance.
04
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the spaces.
05
Locally sourced materials reduce environmental impact and support regional craftsmanship.

### Overview

Located on the dramatic cliffs of the coastline in an undisclosed region of coastal South America, "Uncharted Edge" integrates architectural design with its natural context. The project emphasizes the interplay between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, exploring themes of dislocation, temporality, and the human experience in relation to nature.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial organization of the building reflects a carefully considered approach that balances functionality and experiential depth. The entrance is designed to engage visitors with sweeping views of the ocean, while the layout guides users through interconnected spaces that frame the landscape. Interior living areas feature large openings that invite natural light and blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. Private spaces are incorporated to provide moments of solitude, reinforcing individual reflection amidst the expansive coastal setting. Additionally, balconies extend from the main structure, facilitating immersive interactions with the panoramic views and sounds of the ocean.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the design. Concrete is selected for its durability and resilience against coastal weather, ensuring the building's permanence within a dynamic environment. Sustainably sourced wood is incorporated in the interiors, adding warmth and texture that enhance the user experience. Glass elements maximize natural light and frame the breathtaking surroundings, while steel is considered for its structural contributions beneath a minimalist facade. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability, potentially utilizing locally sourced materials and embracing ecological principles to respect and harmonize with the natural environment.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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