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Cement Block Design Featuring Communal Spaces and Sustainable Features

Authors:
Sueli Garcia, Maria Elvira Rosete
Cement Block Design Featuring Communal Spaces and Sustainable Features
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Constructed from cement blocks, this compact dwelling integrates communal spaces with sustainable design features to create an efficient living environment for individuals and couples in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a central communal area that encourages social interaction.
02
Cement blocks are utilized to promote affordability and ease of construction.
03
Volumetric windows enhance natural light while minimizing heat gain.
04
A rooftop solarium serves as an extension of the living space for social gatherings.
05
Sustainable technologies, including thermal solar panels, support energy efficiency.

The BURITI MICROHOME is a compact housing solution designed for urban residents in Brazil. This dwelling caters to the needs of individuals and couples, balancing functional living with cultural elements. Its layout promotes a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it suitable for modern lifestyles while reflecting local traditions.

Cultural Integration

The design centers around a communal space that invites togetherness. Within this area, a round table and stove are key features, symbolizing traditional Brazilian practices. This central arrangement enhances social interaction, making it a gathering point for residents and their families. The warmth of the space encourages a sense of belonging and connection to cultural heritage.

Environmental Considerations

The BURITI MICROHOME takes climate into account through features such as volumetric windows and wood brise-soleil panels. These elements not only allow light into the home but also help manage temperature and airflow. In a tropical climate, this thoughtful design promotes comfort and reduces the need for artificial cooling, creating a pleasant indoor environment year-round.

Material Efficiency

Cement blocks are utilized as the primary building material, providing a practical solution for affordable housing. This choice reflects an understanding of local construction methods and the requirements of low-income communities. Cement blocks are accessible, allowing for easy replication of the home across different regions, which addresses the ongoing housing shortage in Brazil.

Functional Design Features

The rooftop solarium serves as an extension of the living space, emphasizing outdoor connectivity. This area can be used for leisure and social gatherings, making it a versatile part of the home. In addition, the incorporation of self-sustaining technologies like thermal solar panels and water management systems enhances energy efficiency.

Every aspect of the BURITI MICROHOME is carefully considered to enhance daily living while honoring cultural roots. The combination of communal spaces, practical materials, and sustainable features creates a dwelling that meets modern needs effectively.

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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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