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Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Elements Crafting Flexible Community Spaces

Authors:
Paul Cooksey, Nelize Van Wyk, Ben Wesley, Anna Braunack Myer
Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Elements Crafting Flexible Community Spaces
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Employing charred wood shingles and precast concrete, the design revitalizes an existing structure to serve as a versatile community hub, fostering collaboration among local artisans and businesses.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and an aesthetic continuity with the natural environment.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while offering a warm interior atmosphere.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for increased roof height, accommodating spacious interiors without compromising the footprint.
04
Flexible workspace configurations support a range of activities from collaborative projects to private meetings.
05
Sustainable building practices include low-VOC materials and energy-efficient systems integrated throughout the design.

The community hub in Adelaide, South Australia, exemplifies a contemporary architectural design focused on repurposing an existing structure to function as a multifunctional space for local artisans and businesses. This project aims to create an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and community engagement by providing versatile workspaces and social areas.

The design integrates principles of adaptive reuse, addressing the need for flexible spaces within the context of a changing local economy. By retaining structural components and enhancing them with modern materials and designs, the project minimizes environmental impact while revitalizing the area. Natural light is maximized through the use of large glass facades and strategically placed skylights, promoting a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Unique Design Approaches

This project adopts a community-centric approach by involving local stakeholders throughout the design process. The intention is to ensure that the space meets the diverse needs of the users, which range from freelance professionals to small business owners. Adaptive reuse allows for flexibility in space utilization, granting occupants the ability to modify work environments according to their distinct requirements. This adaptability is reflected in areas designed for private meetings, collaborative work, and informal gatherings.

The architectural materials consist of a combination of brick, precast concrete, and glass, chosen not just for aesthetic appeal but also for their durability and performance. The project's emphasis on low-VOC paints and finishes contributes to a healthier indoor environment, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the incorporation of green roofs and energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels, promotes environmental stewardship.

Functional Spaces

Within the hub, various designated areas serve distinct functions. Administrative spaces are designed with user flexibility in mind, accommodating changing needs without requiring significant renovation. Community spaces support social interaction and engagement, fostering a sense of community ownership and pride.

The design recognizes the importance of outdoor spaces, including gardens and recreational areas that promote wellness and enhance the user experience. By integrating social and work environments, the project aims to facilitate interaction and collaboration among users, contributing to a cohesive community atmosphere.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design, we encourage readers to explore the project presentation. This exploration provides a comprehensive view of the architectural ideas and methodologies that define this community hub, illustrating its potential impact on the local 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.

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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