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Cardboard Walls and Bamboo Flooring in a Self-Sufficient Mediterranean Retreat

Authors:
Claudio Zampaglione, Federica Gioja, Valeria Di Paola
Cardboard Walls and Bamboo Flooring in a Self-Sufficient Mediterranean Retreat
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Utilizing cardboard walls and bamboo flooring, the design prioritizes sustainability and self-sufficiency in a compact home that invites a seamless interaction with its Mediterranean surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a cardboard wall system for lightweight construction.
02
Incorporates a hydroponic garden for on-site food production.
03
Features a bio composting toilet to promote self-sufficiency.
04
Integrates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water use.
05
Constructed without a foundation, allowing for quick assembly in varied locations.

The WILD open-air home project embodies a design that connects living spaces with the natural environment. Located in a Mediterranean landscape, it offers a combination of indoor and outdoor areas that support a sustainable and independent lifestyle. The design allows residents to immerse themselves in their surroundings while providing functional spaces for both living and working. This approach creates a balance between comfort and nature, encouraging a simpler way of life.

Design Concept

At the heart of the home is a focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency. By reducing dependence on public services, residents can live off-grid, aligning with a growing interest in eco-friendly living. The layout includes options for both close plan and open plan arrangements, allowing residents to adapt the space to their needs. This flexibility enhances daily life by facilitating different activities, from relaxing to working.



Construction and Assembly

The construction process of the WILD home is straightforward and efficient. It does not require a permanent foundation, which makes it easier to build in various locations. The structure is made off-site and can be quickly transported and assembled, typically in just a few days. This method supports the goal of minimizing construction time while maintaining a practical design approach.



Materiality

Materials used in the WILD home play an important role in its design and functionality. Recycled structural steel provides strength and durability, while bamboo flooring is chosen for its sustainability and natural appearance. A steel grating system enhances ventilation and overall structural support. Natural cocciopesto plaster serves as an eco-friendly finishing touch, and the use of cardboard wall systems highlights a commitment to lightweight construction and sustainability.



Functional Elements

The design incorporates various practical features that enhance everyday living. These include a bio composting toilet and flexible waste systems that contribute to a self-sufficient lifestyle. A rainwater collection system and a hydroponic garden promote sustainable practices right within the home. Each element is thoughtfully integrated to support a lifestyle that values environmental responsibility and a close connection to nature.



The terrace serves as a continuation of the interior space, offering a gentle transition to the landscape outside. This integration maximizes natural light while encouraging outdoor activities and engagement with the surrounding environment. The balance of indoor comfort and outdoor freedom is central to the experience of living in this home, making it a place where nature and daily life coexist harmoniously.

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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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