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Charred Wood Finishes and Prefabricated Steel Create a Compact Self-Sufficient Home

Charred Wood Finishes and Prefabricated Steel Create a Compact Self-Sufficient Home
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Utilizing charred wood finishes and prefabricated steel, the design offers a compact and self-sufficient living solution that seamlessly integrates sustainability with modern functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and energy efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes internal space and promotes natural light penetration.
04
Integrated hydroponic systems support local food production within the living unit.
05
Mobile construction allows for relocation, catering to diverse living environments.

## Overview

Home Micro-3 is situated in a context that addresses contemporary challenges of space utilization, sustainability, and adaptability in residential design. This project focuses on creating a modular and flexible living unit of 25 square meters that promotes self-sufficiency and environmentally friendly practices, particularly in off-grid settings. The intent is to redefine conventional home living by providing a compact solution to spatial, economic, and locational issues.

## Spatial Efficiency and Flexibility

The design of Home Micro-3 prioritizes an innovative spatial strategy that allows for multifunctionality within limited areas. The interior layout supports various living functions—sleeping, cooking, and socializing—by utilizing adaptive room arrangements. This emphasis on flexible spatial organization fosters interpersonal connections among residents and encourages community engagement, creating a living environment that is both practical and conducive to social interaction.

## Sustainable Material Choices

Material selection is crucial to the project’s commitment to sustainability. Key materials include prefabricated steel for structural support, energy-efficient insulated panels for optimal thermal performance, and expansive glass elements that enhance natural light and views. Additionally, integrated green systems such as hydroponic units contribute to local food production, reinforcing the project's ecological goals.

## Renewable Energy Integration

The design incorporates several renewable energy features, including solar panels and strategically placed wind turbines that harness natural resources for electricity generation. Rainwater harvesting systems are also included to enhance water self-sufficiency. These elements collectively aim to reduce reliance on external energy sources and minimize the environmental footprint of residents, aligning with objectives of sustainable living.

## Adaptability and Mobility

The Home Micro-3 project is inherently adaptable, allowing for relocation while reducing environmental impact. This mobility caters to diverse locations, from urban centers to remote areas. The innovative design promotes a small-scale living approach that supports ecological sustainability while engaging with local ecosystems through integrated gardening practices.

## Community Interaction Areas

The layout facilitates social interactions without compromising privacy. Outdoor communal seating areas are designed to promote neighborly engagement, essential in off-grid settings where isolation can be common. This intentional design aspect underscores the importance of fostering community connections within the living environment.

By focusing on spatial efficiency, sustainability, and community engagement, Home Micro-3 represents a forward-thinking model in residential architecture that addresses modern living challenges.

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The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
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.

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
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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