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Charred Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Modular Urban Living Solutions

Authors:
Mykola Halimov, Oleksandr Sukhomudrenko, Alexey Semenov
Charred Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Modular Urban Living Solutions
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With an emphasis on charred wooden shingles and integrated green roofs, the design redefines urban living by creating adaptable, modular housing solutions that fulfill the need for affordable and sustainable residences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to improve durability and weather resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and natural light.
04
Integrates green roofs for improved insulation and biodiversity.
05
Includes adaptable modular units that cater to diverse residential needs.

### Project Overview

The Sydney Puzzle Houses project represents a sequential housing design initiative located in Sydney, focused on addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing. By employing a modular design philosophy, the project emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, and ecological sensitivity. It aims to provide dynamic residential solutions that are responsive to the diverse urban contexts within the city, fostering sustainable urban living.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Engagement

The design utilizes "block section" and "block module" strategies, enabling various configurations tailored to specific locations. Key spatial features include two-level apartments that optimize vertical space usage, garden apartments that integrate with their natural surroundings, and mixed-use spaces incorporating amenities such as food stores and beauty salons to enhance community interaction. Public spaces for recreation and social gatherings further enrich the living experience, promoting a strong sense of community through shared green areas and accessible amenities.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

A deliberate selection of materials is employed to ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Concrete provides structural integrity, while glass enhances natural lighting and connectivity with the outdoors. The use of brick contributes to thermal efficiency, and composite materials are integrated within the facade systems for sustainable building practices. Additionally, features such as insulated double-glazed windows promote energy efficiency, and green roofing systems support biodiversity and insulation. Collectively, these material choices reflect a commitment to durability and environmental harmony.

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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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