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Charred Wood Shingles and Solar Integration in Sustainable Urban Housing

Authors:
Cheng Chi, Lin Pin Yu
Charred Wood Shingles and Solar Integration in Sustainable Urban Housing
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Utilizing charred wood shingles and integrated solar panels, the design creates a sustainable urban housing solution that fosters community interaction while addressing diverse living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project prioritizes affordability in urban living.
02
Diverse unit types cater to various occupancy needs.
03
A flexible community hub enhances social interactions.
04
Green roofs and solar panels promote ecological responsibility.
05
Pedestrian access improves connectivity within the environment.

The RE Green project embodies a focused approach towards sustainable urban living in Milan, Italy. Designed as a multifaceted solution to housing needs, the project prioritizes affordability while integrating environmentally responsible practices. The layout maximizes functionality and social interaction, promoting a sense of community among residents.

The architectural design incorporates various unit types, including one-room, two-room, and three-room apartments, allowing for diverse occupancy configurations. The strategic arrangement of private and communal spaces ensures that residents have access to both privacy and opportunities for engagement. Central to the development is a flexible community hub that serves multiple purposes, including a marketplace, laundromat, and social area aimed at fostering interactions among residents.

Innovative Community-Centric Design

A distinct aspect of the RE Green project is its community-centric approach, which emphasizes social cohesion. By situating the central communal space within the development, the design encourages inhabitants to engage with one another in shared activities. This flexible space offers venues for local businesses, workshops, and social gatherings, integrating living and community functions that promote a vibrant atmosphere. The design prioritizes pedestrian access, connecting residents to their surroundings and enhancing the overall livability of the environment.

Sustainable Building Practices

This project stands out in its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The architectural design features green roofs for biodiversity, while solar panels are utilized to generate renewable energy, significantly reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. Material selection focuses on durability and environmental impact, with concrete and glass prominently featured in the construction. By adopting these practices, the RE Green project not only addresses immediate housing needs but fosters long-term ecological sustainability within the urban context.

For detailed insights and to explore architectural plans, sections, and design approaches, a comprehensive review of the project presentation is encouraged. This resource will provide deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that define the RE Green project and its role in shaping contemporary urban living in Milan.

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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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