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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Highlighting Sustainable Urban Living

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Highlighting Sustainable Urban Living
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Charred wooden shingles envelop cross-laminated timber structures, creating an eco-sensitive, adaptable housing solution that fosters community engagement in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles serve as a weather-resistant exterior, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Upper-level units include integrated shared greenhouses for local food production.
03
Pollinator gardens on the roof attract biodiversity and support environmental health.
04
A micro-lift system improves accessibility for all residents throughout the building.
05
Timber frame construction prioritizes local materials to reduce environmental impact.

## Project Overview

PLAN(T)ED is situated at the intersection of Bathurst and Wolesley Streets in Toronto, within a publicly owned site that aims to enhance urban living through sustainable and innovative housing solutions. Targeting middle-density housing, the project seeks to promote ecological sensitivity while fostering community engagement. Its strategic location near transit hubs and underutilized public land underscores its intent to serve as a model for responsible urban development.

## Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The architectural design employs a multi-layered spatial organization that facilitates efficient use of space. Upper dwelling units incorporate shared greenhouse spaces, while lower units enhance accessibility through a micro-lift system. Shared gardens, plazas, and commercial areas, including a mini-grocery store and cafes, are designed to encourage community interaction and support daily needs. Notably, the inclusion of upper-level greenhouses promotes food production and ecological education, contributing to an interactive community environment.

## Sustainable Materials and Construction Techniques

The project prioritizes sustainable construction materials to minimize its ecological footprint. Solar panels are incorporated to harness renewable energy, while green roofs utilize local materials to enhance biodiversity. Wood frame construction serves as a sustainable alternative to conventional building materials, and rain screens prevent water infiltration while adding to the aesthetic appeal of the structure. By emphasizing local resources, PLAN(T)ED also supports the regional economy and fosters a resilient urban framework.

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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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