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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Versatile Community Hub

Authors:
Karol Kuzniak, Julie Mikkelsen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Versatile Community Hub
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Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the multi-purpose facility effectively integrates sustainable materials and flexible spaces to serve a vibrant community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a flexible layout that adapts to various community needs over time.
04
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the environment.
05
Includes a green roof system to promote biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.

Located in a dynamic urban setting, this architectural design project exemplifies a fusion of functionality and modern aesthetics. The structure serves as a multi-purpose facility, designed to accommodate various activities, including commercial and recreational functions. Its design effectively responds to the surrounding environment while prioritizing user experience and connectivity with both the interior and exterior spaces.

The architecture features a series of interlocking volumes that create distinct but cohesive spaces. This modular approach not only enhances the visual complexity of the structure but also optimizes the functional flow between different areas. The façade incorporates large glass panels, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interior, thereby creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This element interacts with the surrounding urban landscape, blurring the boundary between indoors and outdoors.

The unique aspect of this project is its emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. The incorporation of green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and solar panels highlights a commitment to minimizing the environmental impact. The choice of materials further supports this objective; recycled steel frames and low-VOC finishes were utilized to enhance both durability and indoor air quality. This thoughtful material selection is not only practical but also serves to link the building to its ecological context, promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

Innovative design strategies were applied in creating flexible spaces that can adapt to diverse uses over time. Moveable partitions and modular furniture allow for easy reconfiguration, catering to the evolving needs of the community. The integration of outdoor terraces and communal areas encourages social interaction, breaking down barriers between users and fostering a sense of community within the urban fabric.

In addition, the project demonstrates a careful consideration of circulation patterns, ensuring easy navigation throughout the space. Clear sightlines and intuitive pathways guide users efficiently and enhance accessibility. The comprehensive approach to design, from conceptualization to execution, demonstrates a keen understanding of the relationship between architecture and the lived experience.

For further exploration of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for in-depth insights and analyses. This examination of architectural elements can provide a comprehensive understanding of the project’s impact within its context.

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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

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