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Charred Timber Shingles and Metal Cladding in Modular Residences for Extreme Environments

Authors:
Matteo Orsi, Kyriacos Christofides
Charred Timber Shingles and Metal Cladding in Modular Residences for Extreme Environments
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Utilizing charred timber shingles and weather-resistant metal cladding, the design creates modular residences that provide efficient and sustainable living solutions in Iceland's extreme climate conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed for easy transport and installation in remote locations.
02
Incorporation of renewable energy through integrated photovoltaic battery systems.
03
High-performance insulation tailored for energy efficiency in extreme climates.
04
Adjustable supports allow stability on uneven terrain common in Iceland.
05
Use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability and aesthetic integration.

### Project Overview

Located in the rugged landscapes of Iceland, this design seeks to establish a modular dwelling that responds to the challenges of isolation, extreme weather conditions, and the imperative of ecological sustainability. The intent is to provide a functional space suited for adventurers and researchers, where architecture and environment coexist harmoniously, aligning with the local climate and geography.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The dwelling comprises modular units that feature a flexible spatial organization, including designated areas for sleeping, cooking, and sanitation. The open-plan layout facilitates movement and interaction among users, fostering a sense of community despite the isolated context. Interior spaces are designed with user comfort as a priority, utilizing natural finishes that evoke warmth and familiarity. Strategic window placements optimize views of the surrounding landscape while enhancing natural light penetration, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Practices

The design employs a carefully curated selection of durable and sustainable materials. Key components include metallic cladding for weather resistance, high-performance insulation for thermal regulation, and triple-glazed windows to enhance energy efficiency. Additional features such as timber shells provide a warm interior atmosphere and promote sustainability.

Sustainability is central to the project, with energy-efficient systems that incorporate both passive and active solutions. Rainwater harvesting and on-site waste management systems enable the modules to achieve self-sufficiency. The modular design also allows for simplified logistics, facilitating installation and maintenance in remote areas, a crucial consideration for its intended use.

Overall, the project exemplifies a comprehensive approach to sustainable living in extreme environments, successfully integrating functionality with environmental respect.

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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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