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Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facades Define Community-Centric Residential Spaces

Authors:
Katie Kasabalis, Darius Woo, Kao Onishi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facades Define Community-Centric Residential Spaces
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a dynamic perimeter layout, the design enhances community interaction while providing diverse residential options in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a double perimeter block to enhance community engagement and connectivity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic distinctiveness.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Includes integrated green corridors to promote biodiversity and outdoor community activities.
05
Design allows for flexible living spaces to adapt to varying family needs and uses.

The Liminal Habitats project is an architectural undertaking located in London, specifically at the junction of Somers Town and King’s Cross. This project aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing while fostering a sense of community and belonging among residents. The design is characterized by its integration of public and private spaces, facilitating interaction while maintaining necessary privacy for individuals and families.

The architectural concept centers around creating a double perimeter block that organizes the site into distinct public and private areas. This configuration allows for a variety of housing types and community-oriented spaces, promoting social engagement and accessibility. The project includes multifunctional ground-level areas that incorporate local businesses and communal facilities, thus enhancing the user experience and community interaction.

One distinguishing aspect of the Liminal Habitats project is its emphasis on community-centric spaces. The design integrates shared gardens and green corridors that not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the environment but also serve functional purposes. These elements encourage outdoor activities and social gatherings, thereby strengthening community ties. Additionally, the housing units are meticulously designed for flexibility, allowing residents to adapt living spaces according to their personal needs and family dynamics, promoting a responsive living environment.

The material palette plays a crucial role in the architectural expression of this project. It features a mix of brick, glass, and wood. Brick is used to connect the project to local building traditions, while glass elements ensure transparency and a visual connection to outdoor spaces. Wood introduces warmth to the interiors, creating a comfortable atmosphere. The thoughtful selection of materials contributes to the overall sustainability and longevity of the design.

The Liminal Habitats project represents a significant shift in how urban residential designs can incorporate community and environmental considerations. Its innovative approach to spatial organization, mixed-use functionality, and thoughtful integration of nature not only meets the contemporary needs of urban living but also sets a precedent for future housing projects.

To explore this project further, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, please visit the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of the design and its unique attributes.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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