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Charred Wooden Facade and Elevated Design in a Sustainable Microhome Embracing Remote Living

Charred Wooden Facade and Elevated Design in a Sustainable Microhome Embracing Remote Living
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Elevated on concrete pillars and clad in a charred wooden facade, this sustainable microhome integrates solar energy solutions while offering a flexible living space designed for remote habitation in the Scandinavian wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes the Yakisugi technique for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features a flexible modular design that supports community connectivity.
03
Incorporates solar panels seamlessly into the charred wooden facade.
04
Elevated design protects the structure from snow accumulation and wildlife.
05
Open-plan layout maximizes space while promoting natural light and outdoor views.

## Overview

LÅDA is a microhome situated in the rugged terrain of the Scandinavian mountains, designed to address the unique challenges of remote living. The project aims to provide a functional and aesthetically pleasing habitat while promoting sustainability and energy efficiency in an isolated environment. Its context emphasizes a connection to nature, offering occupants a harmonious living experience amid harsh winters and limited resources.

## Modularity and Adaptive Use

LÅDA employs a modular design approach, allowing units to be stacked and configured to form a micro-village. This flexibility enables each space to adapt to varying user requirements, whether serving as residential areas or workspaces. The design accommodates contemporary remote work trends while preserving essential connections to modern amenities.

## Sustainable Materiality and Environmental Integration

The construction emphasizes locally sourced materials, notably pinewood, which is treated using the Yakisugi technique to enhance durability against weather conditions. The foundation utilizes concrete for stability, while strategically placed glass in the façade maximizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, the roof incorporates innovative systems for capturing snow and rainwater, contributing to the home's sustainability and reducing reliance on external resources.

The exterior features include a minimalistic cube elevated on concrete pillars, safeguarding the ecosystem beneath from disruption. Louvered blinds crafted from pinewood provide both privacy and climate control, while an accessible staircase integrates seamlessly with the overall design language. Inside, the open-plan layout promotes interaction, with functional spaces that prioritize efficiency and adaptability, enhancing the overall user experience.

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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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