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Charred Timber Facade and 3d Printed Structure Defining Sustainable Urban Living

Charred Timber Facade and 3d Printed Structure Defining Sustainable Urban Living
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Utilizing charred timber cladding and advanced 3D printing methods, the design embodies a sustainable approach to urban living with customizable spaces for contemporary residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology for structural components.
02
Incorporates salvaged wood to enhance sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for efficient space utilization.
04
Includes thermal heat sink materials for improved energy performance.
05
Integrates customizable templates for personalized living.

## Project Overview

Qalab is situated in a contemporary urban setting and addresses the evolving demands of housing through its focus on sustainability, customization, and functionality. The term "Qalab," which translates to "template" in Arabic, underscores the project's core intention of providing adaptable living spaces that meet individual needs. This initiative emphasizes the importance of personalization in residential architecture, allowing homeowners to create environments that reflect their unique lifestyles.

### Spatial Planning and User Adaptability

The design incorporates an innovative layout that allows for the strategic zoning of private and communal areas. Adaptive orientation optimizes the placement of the structure to enhance energy efficiency through natural light and ventilation. Interior spaces are designed for flexibility, allowing for multiple functionalities to accommodate changing homeowner requirements. Features such as open living areas are intended to encourage interaction, while dedicated spaces for bedrooms and offices provide comfort and productivity, all designed with careful considerations for natural lighting and insulation.

### Sustainable Materiality and Technological Integration

Qalab employs a range of carefully selected materials aimed at achieving sustainability objectives. Structural elements are designed for 3D printing, which facilitates rapid construction and minimizes waste. The use of salvaged wood reduces reliance on new timber, directly addressing deforestation concerns. Additional elements such as thermal heat sink materials contribute to regulating indoor temperatures, and the intricately designed 3D printed roof enhances both aesthetics and structural integrity. Moreover, provisions for smart technology integration promote energy conservation and efficient home management, further aligning with contemporary sustainability practices.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
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