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Charred Wood and Reflective Surfaces in Compact Forest Living

Authors:
Catarina Rodrigues, Ana Ferreira, Maria Azevedo
Charred Wood and Reflective Surfaces in Compact Forest Living
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With a unique blend of charred wood and a mirrored facade, the design creates a compact dwelling that harmonizes with its forest surroundings while efficiently facilitating daily living activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood exterior enhances durability and weather resistance.
02
Mirrored facade reflects surrounding nature, minimizing visual presence.
03
Water collection system routes rainwater efficiently to functional areas.
04
Dynamic openings allow flexibility and adaptability in usage.
05
Strategic layout supports independent living for multiple occupants.

Living On The Wall is designed to blend functionality and sustainability in a microhome setting. This dwelling serves a variety of daily activities while maximizing the use of space. The overall concept revolves around a layout that promotes independence and interaction among inhabitants, allowing them to smoothly transition between living, working, and sleeping areas. A strong connection to the surrounding natural environment is also emphasized throughout the design.

Spatial Configuration

The arrangement of spaces is centered on a long wall where essential functions are integrated. This design creates an engaging interplay between filled and open areas. Light and shadow shift as doors within the wall open and close, allowing for flexibility based on the occupants' needs. This dynamic interaction enhances the living experience, making the dwelling responsive to daily activities.

Water Management

Water-related functions are placed at one end of the home, strategically designed to take advantage of rainwater collected from the roof. This thoughtful layout not only optimizes resource use but also encourages a sustainable lifestyle. The proximity of cooking spaces to living and sleeping areas fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing various daily tasks to harmonize with one another.

Material Choices

Wood is the primary material used in the structure, adding both strength and a warm aesthetic. The choice of wood stems from its comfort and availability in the local area, supporting environmentally friendly practices focused on renewable resources. To enhance durability, the exterior wood is charred, which helps protect it from weather conditions and fungi, ensuring that it maintains its inviting appearance over time.

Reflections of Nature

The opposite facade features mirrors that reflect the surrounding landscape. This design choice minimizes the visual impact of the home, allowing it to blend into the wooded environment. By reducing its prominence, the reflective surface fosters a connection to nature for the inhabitants. The thoughtful integration of these design elements highlights a commitment to blending modern living with ecological consideration.

The combination of these features illustrates a careful balance between practicality and environmental awareness. Living On The Wall stands as a testament to how thoughtful architecture can enhance daily life while respecting the natural world.

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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.

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