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Charred Wood Panels and Bamboo Flooring in a Compact Sustainable Home
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Utilizing charred wood panels and bamboo flooring, this compact dwelling exemplifies sustainable living through efficient space design and innovative material use, catering to the needs of modern occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Shou Sugi Ban technique for charred wood, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
Features a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
03
Incorporates large glass panels to blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors.
04
Employs bamboo for flooring and structural elements, emphasizing eco-friendliness.
05
Designed with a flexible open-plan layout to maximize functionality in a compact space.

## The Wa House: Architectural Design Project Overview

Located in a context that prioritizes sustainable living, the Wa House is designed to embody the Japanese concept of "Wa," which translates to harmony. The project integrates traditional architectural aesthetics with contemporary design approaches, aiming to promote a lifestyle that values environmental stewardship and mindfulness. With a compact form occupying just 25 square meters, the design emphasizes thoughtful spatial organization and material selection, illustrating how modern residential architecture can effectively merge functionality and sustainability.

### Spatial Strategy

The architectural layout of the Wa House maximizes utility while maintaining a serene atmosphere, showcasing a minimal footprint paired with multifunctional spaces. Specific zones for living, cooking, and resting are carefully defined to ensure an organized habitat without sacrificing comfort. Adjustable Shou panels facilitate natural ventilation, enhancing indoor air quality while reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The design further extends the living area beyond conventional limits by incorporating an integrative landscape that features elements such as Japanese water gardens, seamlessly connecting the interior with the external environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials employed in the Wa House prioritize sustainability and durability, contributing to both the ecological footprint and the quality of living. Kingspan Insulated Panels serve as key components for energy efficiency, while bamboo, known for its resilience and eco-friendliness, is used throughout the interior. The project also incorporates recycled content tiles and engineered bamboo flooring that reflect a commitment to responsible sourcing. Additional sustainability initiatives include a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation and potable use, as well as an on-site solar panel installation that supports the home’s energy requirements. Together, these strategies address contemporary challenges in environmental design and resource management.

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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.

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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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