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Ceramic-Clad Community Spaces Enhanced by Mineral Wool Insulation

Author:
Craig More
Ceramic-Clad Community Spaces Enhanced by Mineral Wool Insulation
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Ceramic tiles enclose communal spaces that prioritize flexibility and connectivity while thick mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency in a residential setting designed for urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Open volume layout allows for flexible reconfiguration.
02
Communal areas encourage interaction among residents.
03
Ceramic tile cladding provides durability and low maintenance.
04
Thick mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency.
05
Fire-resistant plywood contributes to sound insulation and safety.

The affordable urban social housing project offers a forward-thinking solution to the challenges of city living. Set in a bustling metropolitan area, the design focuses on creating spaces that are flexible and foster a sense of community among residents. The overall concept revolves around adaptable living environments that allow individuals and families to thrive within their homes, responding effectively to changing needs over time.

Layout and Flexibility

The design utilizes an open volume approach, intentionally leaving out unnecessary internal walls and fixtures. This layout enables residents to shape their spaces according to personal preferences. Furniture can serve as a way to create functional areas, providing privacy when needed while still allowing for openness. This flexibility accommodates various family dynamics and changing lifestyles, making it easier for individuals to modify their living conditions as they see fit.

Community-Centric Design

A key feature of the design is the inclusion of shared spaces at the entrance level. These communal areas are intended for multiple uses, helping to inspire interaction among residents. They can serve as spaces for relaxation, work, or even small shops. The design recognizes the importance of fostering connections among individuals, turning living environments into places where community bonds can be built and strengthened.

Material Considerations

In terms of materials, the project focuses on energy efficiency and sustainability. The external cladding is made up of large-format ceramic tiles that are lightweight and low-maintenance. This choice not only contributes to durability but also allows for aesthetic flexibility. The building’s envelope features thick, non-flammable mineral wool insulation along with an airtight EPDM membrane, ensuring that energy costs remain low while maintaining comfort throughout the year. The choice of fire-resistant, low embedded carbon plywood for the interiors enhances both safety and sound insulation, essential in busy urban settings.

Every detail in the design is aimed at ensuring that residents feel comfortable and at home. High levels of thermal insulation and careful attention to acoustic performance reflect a commitment to quality living conditions. The overall design embodies a thoughtful approach to housing, emphasizing usability, comfort, and community integration that caters to the diverse needs of city inhabitants.

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

`
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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