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Charred Cedar Facades and Rainwater Harvesting in Urban Living Spaces
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Utilizing charred cedar facades and a rainwater harvesting system, the design creates an adaptable urban living space that fosters community interaction and sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rainwater harvesting integrated into the building’s design for efficient water management.
02
Features a central courtyard designed to promote community interaction among residents.
03
Charred cedar shingles provide weather resistance while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
04
Interior spaces are designed with multifunctional furniture to maximize usability.
05
Strategically placed skylights optimize natural light while ensuring energy efficiency.

### Project Overview
Carve House is situated in a dense urban environment in Toronto, where the need for affordable and sustainable housing is increasingly pressing. This contemporary architectural intervention addresses the complexities of urban living by creating community-oriented spaces that prioritize both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The design seeks to provide housing solutions that foster connectivity among residents while leveraging innovative materials and strategies to meet diverse demographic needs.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout of Carve House is intentionally organized to promote an efficient flow between communal and private spaces. Upon entry, residents and visitors are greeted by a foyer that leads to a central courtyard garden, serving as a focal point for social interaction. The living area integrates cooking, dining, and leisure spaces, facilitating versatile use according to the occupants' lifestyle. Private rooms are designed with ergonomics in mind, incorporating multifunctional furniture that allows for adaptable space management. This layout not only optimizes limited footprints but also enriches the overall living experience through an emphasis on communal activities and individual comfort.

### Material Selection
The material choices in Carve House reinforce its ecological and social commitments. Birch plywood is used for interior finishes, providing warmth and aesthetic appeal, while exterior cedar ensures durability against environmental elements. Blackened steel elements offer structural resilience while contributing to the building's urban character. Large windows and skylights enhance natural light and ventilation, strengthening the connection between interior spaces and the surrounding environment. Additionally, the concrete foundation incorporates a water collection system that supports sustainable practices by managing rainwater for irrigation and other uses.

### Unique Features
Noteworthy innovations in Carve House include a rainwater harvesting system that channels water from the roof to the courtyard, promoting ecological sustainability. The flexible interior layout is achieved through custom-built furniture units, allowing for easy reconfiguration to accommodate various activities such as work or social gatherings. Strategic window placement maximizes natural light while minimizing heat gain, ensuring energy efficiency throughout the home. Furthermore, the integration of natural elements and garden spaces within the design contributes to residents' mental well-being and enhances the urban ecological fabric.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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