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Cantilevered Solar Pergola in a Compact PVC Home

Authors:
Carlos Murillo, Lourdes Rodríguez, Alejandro Murillo
Cantilevered Solar Pergola in a Compact PVC Home
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A cantilevered solar pergola and multifunctional layout define a compact PVC home, designed to blend sustainably into the Amazonian landscape while fulfilling essential living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered solar pergola enhances energy efficiency.
02
Cross-ventilation design promotes natural airflow.
03
Integrated multipurpose furniture maximizes utility.
04
PVC construction provides lightweight durability.
05
Distinct “container wall” aids in thermal comfort.

THPUT is located in the Amazonia region of Venezuela, designed with the cultural heritage of the Pemón people in mind. The building aims to provide a compact and functional living space that blends well into the surrounding landscape. It is a representation of the lifestyle and needs of its inhabitants, emphasizing sustainability and harmony with nature.

Design Concept

The layout follows a rectangular form based on the golden ratio, measuring 3.00 by 8.00 meters. This ratio aids in creating a visually pleasing space while maximizing the utility of 24 square meters. Inside, each area has a designated role, making it easier for residents to manage daily activities within the limited space.

Material Selection

The structure is built entirely from PVC and rests on a structural steel framework. Using these materials ensures the building remains lightweight yet strong, which is essential given the humid conditions of the Amazon. PVC is durable and requires less maintenance, while steel provides the necessary support and stability. This choice of materials also aligns with environmentally friendly construction practices.

Layout and Functionality

The internal arrangement organizes space into distinct areas for cleaning, cooking, dining, and living. The design separates private and communal functions, promoting easy movement throughout the home. A central multifunctional area accommodates various uses, responding to the diverse needs of occupants while maintaining a sense of spaciousness and light.

Unique Design Features

A notable element of THPUT is the cantilevered solar protection pergola, which includes mini photovoltaic panels. This feature captures solar energy, making the home more self-sufficient. The entrance is defined by a "container wall" with large windows, enhancing ventilation and ensuring fresh air circulation, crucial for comfort in the humid climate. Inside, the furnishings are designed to serve multiple functions. For example, the sofa can convert into a bed, and the dining table plays a role as a workspace, allowing for flexible living arrangements.

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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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