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Charred Timber Screens and Communal Landscapes in Compact Urban Living

Charred Timber Screens and Communal Landscapes in Compact Urban Living
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Constructed with charred timber screens and designed around a shared courtyard, the project reinterprets the traditional workers' cottage concept to foster community living in an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred timber screens for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Integrates a shared courtyard to promote community interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Features passive ventilation strategies tailored to the subtropical climate.
05
Adopts a modular construction approach for rapid assembly and cost-effectiveness.

## Overview
Located in the West End suburb of Brisbane, Australia, the New Workers Cottage project addresses the pressing demand for affordable housing while fostering community connections and environmental sustainability. The design is a contemporary interpretation of traditional workers' cottages, focusing on efficient use of space and materials to promote both individual well-being and social interaction among residents.

### Spatial Arrangement
An open-plan layout characterizes the design of the cottages, which comprises four interconnected units arranged around a shared courtyard. This configuration encourages communal activities and interaction among residents, enhancing neighborhood engagement. The design also optimizes natural ventilation and light, which is critical in Brisbane's subtropical climate.

### Material Selection
The material palette is carefully chosen to balance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and sustainability. Hardwood timber is utilized for structural frames and interior finishes, offering warmth and a natural feel. Colorbond steel serves as the roofing and external cladding material, chosen for its durability and low maintenance. Concrete blocks provide stability for foundational elements, while expansive glass windows and sliding doors facilitate a strong connection to the outdoor environment. Additionally, timber screens contribute to privacy and shading, enhancing the overall efficiency and visual identity of the cottages.

### Community and Sustainability
The design emphasizes a community-oriented approach, with the central courtyard serving as a focal point for shared experiences. A commitment to sustainability is evident in the incorporation of renewable materials and energy-efficient strategies, including natural ventilation and passive shading techniques. Modular construction methods are employed to ensure a cost-effective and expedited assembly process without compromising quality. Furthermore, the architecture reflects a respectful nod to the historical significance of workers' cottages, integrating heritage and modern needs in a cohesive manner.

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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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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

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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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