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Charred Wood Facade and Steel Framework Redefining Creative Spaces in Urban Education

Authors:
Matthieu Friedli, Agathe Sautet, Clara Berthaud
Charred Wood Facade and Steel Framework Redefining Creative Spaces in Urban Education
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With a facade of charred wood and a robust steel framework, the design transforms traditional perceptions of artistic spaces into a dynamic hub for tattoo education and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles create a sustainable, fire-resistant exterior.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while enhancing aesthetics.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while reducing material use.
04
An open workshop layout encourages collaboration among artists and students.
05
Integrated green terraces promote biodiversity and enhance user experience.

### Overview
Located at the border of North Melbourne, the Tattoo Academy aims to redefine the perception and function of tattoo artistry within urban settings. This architectural initiative focuses on creating an environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and education for tattoo artists, aligning with evolving societal attitudes towards body art. The design integrates seamlessly into the culturally diverse landscape of the area, striking a balance between the vibrancy of urban life and the contemplative atmosphere necessary for artistic development.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout of the Tattoo Academy emphasizes both functionality and user experience. Open workshops on the upper levels accommodate various artistic practices, including intensive training and demonstrations, promoting collaboration among artists and students. The ground floor encompasses a public gallery and café, designed to facilitate community interaction and engagement with the artistic process. Internal circulation is enhanced through strategically positioned staircases and lift access in the central block, supporting diverse activities while ensuring smooth navigation throughout the building.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices play a critical role in articulating the project's vision. Concrete provides a durable structural backbone, while steel supports flexibility in design. Timber finishes create warmth and contrast with the exterior's industrial elements, and extensive glazing invites natural light, fostering transparency in the creative processes. These materials have been selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their sustainability, promoting energy efficiency and contributing to the longevity of the structure. Features such as a vegetated terrace further integrate environmental considerations, enhancing user well-being and complementing the 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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