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Carbonized Wood Home with Sustainable Guadua in the Andes

Authors:
Edwin Alexander Bautista Pinzon, Yeimy Hernandez Mendoza, Myriam Hernandez Mendoza, Hernan Moreno Benitez
Carbonized Wood Home with Sustainable Guadua in the Andes
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Built with carbonized wood and Guadua, this sustainable home enhances living in the Andes by offering flexible, accessible spaces that support both agricultural work and remote research.
5 key facts about this project
01
Guadua and carbonized wood enhance durability and sustainability.
02
The modular design allows flexible expansion based on user needs.
03
A biodigester processes waste into organic fertilizer on-site.
04
Rainwater collection systems ensure water access in remote areas.
05
Inclusive design features accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The Woodpecker home is designed for young professionals living in the Andes Mountains of Colombia. It aims to provide a solution for those residing in an area with limited access to public utilities such as water and electricity. The home accommodates various functions, from agricultural work to remote research and relaxation. The design centers on adaptability and modularity, allowing owners to customize their living experience as their needs change.

Modular Design

The structure consists of independent modules that can be easily expanded by adding new sections. This approach allows for flexibility, making it possible for residents to modify their homes over time as requirements evolve. The assembly is quick, as local carpenters and specialists are involved, promoting community contribution and skill sharing during the construction process.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the Woodpecker home features a well-organized layout that includes dedicated areas for storage, resting, working, and essential amenities like bathrooms and kitchens. The design takes accessibility into account, ensuring that people with disabilities can navigate and utilize the space comfortably.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is a significant focus in the design of the Woodpecker home. Solar panels are installed to generate electricity for everyday use, while a rainwater treatment system provides clean water for drinking and cooking. Additionally, a biodigester processes solid waste and converts it into organic fertilizer, promoting waste reduction and environmental responsibility.

Materials and Aesthetics

Guadua/Bamboo and sustainably sourced wood are the primary materials used in the construction. These choices reflect an emphasis on environmentally conscious building practices. The exterior is treated with a Yakisugi coating, a method that protects the wood from pests and decay through carbonization. Roof and window designs are crafted to optimize airflow and natural light, helping the home blend into its mountainous environment.

The combination of these design features creates a living space that meets practical needs while fostering a connection to the surrounding nature. The thoughtful integration of sustainability, accessibility, and modularity supports a modern lifestyle that is seamlessly integrated with the landscape.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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