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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Tranquil Retreat with Outdoor Integration

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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Tranquil Retreat with Outdoor Integration
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates thoughtfully with its natural surroundings to create a serene wellness retreat that promotes relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for increased durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural efficiency and reduce weight.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while minimizing exterior footprint.
04
Incorporates extensive glazing to foster ample natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed with dedicated meditation spaces to promote mental well-being and tranquility.

### Project Overview
Located in a tranquil Alpine setting, the design emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. The intent is to create a multifunctional retreat that addresses diverse user needs, ranging from relaxation to therapeutic activities, while prioritizing comfort and natural elements. The architectural approach integrates indoor and outdoor environments to foster a peaceful atmosphere appropriate for modern living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project employs a deliberate selection of materials, prominently featuring wood for its warmth and natural aesthetics, which enhances the inviting character of the spaces. Large glass panels are incorporated to maximize natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and strengthening the connection to the outdoor setting. Concrete elements provide structural durability, counterbalancing the softness of wood.

Sustainability is a core consideration, as the orientation of the building is strategically chosen to optimize daylight and minimize energy loss. The incorporation of local materials further supports sustainable practices by reducing transportation impact. The interior layout promotes energy efficiency, with carefully positioned windows and overhangs that facilitate passive solar heating.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The interior of the building is thoughtfully organized into communal and private areas to encourage relaxation and social interaction. Outdoor spaces, including terraces and gardens, are integrated to enhance the living experience and facilitate a seamless transition between indoors and nature. Dedicated meditation and relaxation zones, highlighted by calming water features and abundant greenery, underscore a commitment to mental well-being.

Accessibility is also a focal point, as design elements such as gentle ramps and wide hallways ensure that the environment is inclusive for all users. Multifunctional spaces, including therapy and multi-purpose rooms, are incorporated to address various needs while fostering a sense of community among inhabitants.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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