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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Valerio Piccolo, Andrea Piccolo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Community Retreat
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the retreat integrates seamlessly into its rural landscape while offering flexible spaces for meditation, wellness, and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and rapid assembly.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes an artificial lake to promote biodiversity and serve as a recreational element.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that adapt for wellness activities and community gatherings.

## Project Overview
The project entails the adaptive restoration of an existing barn structure located in a rural area characterized by rich biodiversity and diverse topography. The primary intent is to preserve the barn's historical features while integrating modern functionalities that enhance usability. The design approach aims to honor the historical significance of the site, influenced by the aesthetics of Italian gardens, particularly reminiscent of the Garden of Ninfa.

## Spatial Strategy
The site layout is meticulously developed to blend natural elements with constructed spaces, creating distinct zones for various activities. Private zones are designated for individual reflection, marked by boundaries that ensure tranquility. Areas for meditation and yoga are incorporated to promote wellness and mindfulness, encouraging users to engage with the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, the inclusion of nature trails and a children's playground facilitates recreational activities and ecological interaction. A fruit garden is also integrated, emphasizing principles of sustainability and self-sufficiency, while an artificial lake enhances aesthetic appeal and supports local wildlife habitats.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The project utilizes a carefully selected palette of materials that reflect both aesthetic qualities and sustainability. Stone is employed for structural integrity and to maintain the barn's historical character, while wood is utilized for structural elements and creating inviting interiors. Glass is incorporated to maximize natural light and reduce energy consumption. The inclusion of solar panels underscores the commitment to renewable energy, while concrete provides structural stability for utility spaces. This strategic material selection not only supports the restoration efforts but also reinforces energy efficiency throughout the facility.

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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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