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Charred Shingles and Vertical Gardens Enhance Urban Community Wellness Spaces

Authors:
William Lentjes, Rebecca Robinson, Michael Phaff
Charred Shingles and Vertical Gardens Enhance Urban Community Wellness Spaces
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and equipped with advanced air purification systems, the design fosters community wellness by integrating lush vertical gardens and multifunctional spaces in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates advanced air purification technology to improve indoor air quality.
03
Features vertical gardens that contribute to biodiversity and community interaction.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and ventilation.

# Analytical Report on the Architectural Design Project: "Liberated Awareness"

## Conceptual Framework

Located in a dynamic urban environment, the project aims to create a space that fosters community interaction while prioritizing ethical and sustainable architectural practices. The design draws from a framework of ethics, technology, and aesthetics, facilitating an environment conducive to social engagement and environmental stewardship. This multifaceted approach is intended to enhance both individual and collective user experiences within the space.

### Ethical Framework

A core aspect of the design is its emphasis on sustainable and community-oriented development. The ethical considerations of the project highlight the role architecture can play in promoting social responsibility, shaping human interactions, and encouraging positive behavior within urban settings. By prioritizing community needs, the project underscores the importance of designing spaces that enhance well-being and connectivity among users.

### Technological Integration

The incorporation of advanced technology is designed to improve user experience and environmental quality. Features such as air purification systems with HEPA filters and VOC filtering mechanisms demonstrate a commitment to health and well-being. An Air Purifying Tower, specifically designed to address urban air quality challenges, exemplifies the integration of innovative solutions to enhance the living environment.

## Spatial Organization and Materiality

### Spatial Strategy

The project exhibits a well-defined spatial hierarchy that incorporates open access areas, individual living units, and communal facilities. The layout encourages interaction and accessibility, with designated spaces including a community room for social gatherings, private patios for personal respite, and reception areas for seamless visitor engagement. This strategic organization reinforces the balance between public and private zones, fostering a cohesive community dynamic.

### Material Choice

The selection of materials plays a pivotal role in shaping the project's identity. Wood is utilized for both structural and aesthetic purposes, emphasizing a connection to nature and sustainability. Glass elements facilitate natural light flow while enhancing transparency and visibility of interior spaces. Concrete is employed in foundational elements, ensuring durability and resilience. Additionally, the air purifying components reflect a commitment to technological enhancement aimed at improving indoor air quality.

## Site Integration and Engagement

The design recognizes the significance of its geographic context, integrating the project into the existing urban fabric. Urban maps included in the analysis highlight key landmarks, pedestrian routes, and green spaces, underscoring the design's responsiveness to its surroundings. The concept of an active public zone not only encourages community interactions but also enhances accessibility to the site, ultimately fostering a stronger community presence.

## Unique Design Features

1. **Active Public Zone**: The project features an active public zone that mirrors and engages with surrounding urban forms, promoting communal activities and interaction.

2. **Air Purification System**: The innovative air purification towers are a distinguishing characteristic, directly addressing urban health issues by prioritizing air quality.

3. **Social Interaction Spaces**: Elements designed for communal gathering enhance the potential for social engagement, critical for enriching urban life.

4. **Sustainable Practices**: The use of solar panels and environmentally-conscious materials aligns with modern architectural trends aimed at reducing ecological footprints.

This detailed approach to design reflects a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between architecture and community, with the intent to create spaces that promote well-being and sustainability in an urban context.

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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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