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Charred Wood Siding and Icynene Insulation in a Modern Appalachian Home

Authors:
Sydney Sinclair, Marla Stephens, Ann Nguyen
Charred Wood Siding and Icynene Insulation in a Modern Appalachian Home
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Utilizing charred wood siding and icynene insulation, this contemporary home in the Appalachian region redefines communal living with an expanded porch at its core, fostering connections between residents and their environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The home features a modular design that allows for easy transport and expanded living spaces upon installation.
02
Utilizes an embedded gutter system to capture and purify rainwater for potable use.
03
The porch serves as the central social hub, enhancing community interaction among residents.
04
Constructed on stilts, the design minimizes environmental impact and provides scenic views.
05
Incorporates ecologically friendly materials such as icynene insulation for optimal energy efficiency.

The HollerHaus is a contemporary design located in the Appalachian region, connecting modern living with traditional community values. It redefines the classic porch as the core gathering space of the home, known as the hearth. This concept encourages social interaction and fosters a strong relationship with the natural landscape. The design utilizes a modular approach to create adaptable living spaces that respond to different needs while blending with the surrounding environment.



Design Concept

At the center of the HollerHaus is the porch, which acts as a gathering space for family and friends. This area is designed to promote interaction while ensuring a sense of privacy for the occupants. The layout prioritizes smooth connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing ample light and fresh air into the home. It creates a welcoming atmosphere that strengthens the bond between residents and their community.



Modular Configuration

The HollerHaus consists of two prefabricated modules, each designed to unfold when they arrive on site. This clever mechanism doubles the usable floor area and enhances the flexibility of living spaces. Large glass folding doors integrate the porch with the outdoors, maintaining visual and physical links while enabling residents to adjust their environment according to their needs.



Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is an important aspect of the HollerHaus. The design is self-sufficient, using renewable energy sources like solar panels to meet its power needs. A gutter system captures rainwater and directs it to a filtration tank, making it safe for drinking. This attention to sustainability is further highlighted by the design of the roofs, which are shaped to collect rainwater efficiently and promote responsible use of resources.



Material Choices

Material selection plays a key role in the performance and durability of the HollerHaus. Icynene insulation, created from water and castor oil, is used for its eco-friendly properties and its effectiveness in keeping the indoor climate comfortable. The exterior features shou sugi ban wood siding, an ancient technique that chars wood to protect it from decay and pests.

These thoughtful design elements work together to create a home that blends modern living with the cultural richness of its Appalachian setting, reflecting both functionality and a sense of place.

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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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