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Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Facade Define a Community-Centric Space

Authors:
Jose Carlos Menasalvas Gijón, Cristina Jiménez Lima
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Facade Define a Community-Centric Space
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Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass surfaces come together to create a multifunctional community space that emphasizes sustainability and user engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and aesthetic contrast against the glass facade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to efficient construction and structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design creates dynamic interior spaces while optimizing natural light.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems integrate seamlessly with the landscape for sustainable water management.
05
Modular layout allows for flexible use and adaptation to community needs over time.

The project under analysis is a contemporary architectural design located in an urban context that seamlessly integrates functionality and aesthetic appeal. This design serves as a multifunctional space aimed at enhancing community engagement while reflecting modern architectural values. Its composition addresses the needs of its users while maintaining a thoughtful dialogue with the surrounding environment.

The project's architectural design emphasizes a coherent relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, facilitating natural light infiltration and creating a fluidity that is crucial for user interaction. The layout employs an open design principle that promotes accessibility and movement, allowing users to navigate through the facility effortlessly. This spatial organization is essential in fostering community connections, encouraging social interaction and collaboration among users.

Innovative Material Choices and Sustainability
A distinguishing feature of this architectural project is its commitment to sustainability through the thoughtful selection of materials. High-performance glass is utilized extensively, providing thermal efficiency while maximizing views of the exterior landscape. Composite materials are skillfully incorporated to reduce the building's carbon footprint, demonstrating a progressive approach to sustainable design. Additionally, the use of reclaimed wood not only adds aesthetic warmth but also reinforces the project’s environmental ethos.

The design integrates green technologies such as rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels, optimizing energy efficiency. These elements collectively contribute to a reduced ecological impact while enhancing the overall functionality of the building. The incorporation of green roofs further exemplifies this commitment, promoting biodiversity and reducing urban heat island effects.

Innovative Structural Solutions
This architectural design embraces innovative structural solutions that set it apart from conventional buildings. The use of cantilevered elements allows for expansive outdoor terraces, creating dynamic spaces that extend the usable area beyond traditional boundaries. This design choice also modifies the structural load distribution, enabling flexibility in interior layouts. Open spaces are defined by a modular approach, facilitating various configurations that can adapt to the changing needs of the community.

Incorporating biophilic design principles, the project features lush landscaping that is intertwined with architectural elements. This connection between nature and built form not only enhances user experience but also contributes to improved mental well-being, thereby reinforcing the design philosophy of holistic user engagement.

The project stands as a testament to contemporary architectural practices that prioritize sustainability, user engagement, and a strong sense of place. Its carefully considered materiality, innovative structural strategies, and commitment to environmental stewardship serve as commendable examples within the field. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design approach, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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