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Charred Wood Shingles Integrate with Public Spaces to Create Intergenerational Living Environments

Charred Wood Shingles Integrate with Public Spaces to Create Intergenerational Living Environments
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Charred wood shingles envelop a community-focused structure designed to facilitate intergenerational interactions, housing diverse residential units alongside versatile public spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes spatial efficiency and natural light.
04
Dedicated communal spaces foster interaction among residents of various ages.
05
Green roofs integrate biodiversity and improve urban air quality.

## Project Overview

Located in the urban environment of Berlin near the Spree River, WERKHOF is an architectural design focused on fostering intergenerational communication and creating inclusive living spaces. The intent is to integrate diverse age groups and meet their specific needs through functional and aesthetically engaging spaces, while also emphasizing sustainable practices throughout the design.

### Spatial Organization

The layout features designated areas for various activities, ensuring a balanced mix of residential, public, cultural, and educational spaces. Residential units are available in sizes ranging from XS to XL, catering to individuals, families, and seniors while prioritizing communal living and interactions. Public areas are strategically located to enhance accessibility and include a public market, art studios, and coworking spaces that promote social engagement. Additionally, facilities such as a cultural center, dance studio, kindergarten, and adult daycare center support lifelong learning and community connection among residents of all ages.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The selection of materials plays a crucial role in establishing the project's identity and sustainability objectives. The façades prominently feature brick, which provides warmth and aligns with Berlin's architectural context. Structural elements and finishes utilize steel for durability and an industrial aesthetic, while generous glazing fosters natural light and visual transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces. Wood is incorporated into interior finishes to promote a warm atmosphere, whereas green roofs and vertical gardens enhance biodiversity and improve air quality, further emphasizing ecological integration. The surrounding landscape includes pathways and green spaces that facilitate a connection to nature, promote wellness, and enhance recreational opportunities along nearby walking paths.

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

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