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Cedar Shake Cladding and Structural Insulated Panels in Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Michael Hoover, Abigail Peters
Cedar Shake Cladding and Structural Insulated Panels in Compact Urban Living
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Constructed with cedar shake cladding and structural insulated panels, this compact urban dwelling in Buffalo efficiently addresses housing needs through a modular design that maximizes space and enhances community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes structural insulated panels for efficient energy use.
02
Features cedar shake cladding treated with natural pine tar for durability.
03
Optimizes passive solar gain through strategic window placement.
04
Integrates a continuous radiant concrete floor for thermal comfort.
05
Consolidates utility areas along a northern wall to enhance flexibility.

House B is a modular micro living solution situated on vacant lots in Buffalo, New York. It aims to provide efficient housing in an area that has experienced significant urban vacancy. Located in the East Side, where many lots remain unoccupied, the design focuses on maximizing living space while ensuring comfort for residents. The overall concept is based on a grid layout that creates a square footprint, promoting adaptability and optimizing space.

Architecture Concept
The design of House B features a simple box-like form that reflects the industrial history of the surrounding area. This straightforward design makes the structure a clear presence on its site, fostering a connection to the community. By using a modular approach, the layout allows various living configurations that can adapt to different needs while maintaining a cohesive look.

Materials
House B primarily uses Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs, which are known for their effectiveness in energy use and structural strength. This choice is particularly fitting for Buffalo's climate, providing a quick construction method that enhances the building's performance. The exterior is clad with cedar shakes treated with natural pine tar, contributing both to durability and to a warm, inviting appearance.

Interior Configuration
Inside, the arrangement emphasizes an open and flexible space. Most surfaces are finished with sanded pine plywood, which creates a light and modern feel. Various utility areas, including the kitchen nook, washroom, wardrobe, storage, and bed, are grouped along a northern wall. This design choice allows for a spacious living area where residents can easily interact and use the space comfortably.

Design Details
A continuous radiant concrete floor serves as both a heating element and thermal mass, which helps to keep the interior warm during winter. The incorporation of operable windows and skylights enhances natural ventilation and daylighting, ensuring a pleasant indoor atmosphere. These elements work together to create a functional and welcoming living environment that aligns with the urban setting, contributing to a sense of community and connection.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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