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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living Space

Author:
Enrico Fabbri
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living Space
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Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels create a sustainable exterior that harmonizes with the urban landscape, supporting a mixed-use hub designed for community interaction and modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a fire-resistant and weathered aesthetic, enhancing durability.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction time while ensuring structural integrity.
03
The bent A-frame design offers optimal natural light and ventilation throughout the building.
04
Green roof spaces integrate biodiversity and promote sustainable urban practices.
05
Community-focused areas encourage social interaction and enhance the user experience.

The project under analysis is a contemporary architectural design that seamlessly integrates functionality with aesthetic considerations. Set in an urban environment, the structure is designed to accommodate both residential and commercial uses, effectively embodying the principles of mixed-use development. This project utilizes materials that promote sustainability and enhance the overall visual appeal, reflecting a modern approach to urban architecture.

One of the most distinctive features of the design is its emphasis on natural light and open spaces. The layout maximizes daylight penetration through strategically placed windows and skylights. This not only contributes to energy efficiency but also creates a pleasant living and working environment. The exterior façade is characterized by a combination of glass and locally sourced stone, which enhances the building’s connection to its surroundings while providing thermal insulation. The use of these materials is deliberate, showcasing a balance between durability and aesthetic value.

The structure functions as a community hub, integrating retail spaces on the ground level with residential units above. This multifunctionality encourages interaction among residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community within the urban landscape. It showcases a thoughtful approach to urban living, where accessibility and convenience are prioritized. The landscape design complements this by incorporating green spaces, such as rooftop gardens and community parks, which promote biodiversity and serve as recreational areas for residents.

The project stands out due to its innovative design methodologies. It employs passive design principles that reduce energy consumption, including the strategic orientation of the building to harness prevailing winds for natural ventilation. Such approaches are not only economically advantageous but also align with global sustainability goals. The incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems further emphasizes the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

In addition, the building is equipped with smart technology, integrating home automation systems that enhance the usability and security of the residential units. This forward-thinking aspect of the design reflects a growing trend towards smart living environments, tailored to meet the needs of modern inhabitants.

Exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with this project will provide deeper insights into its layout and spatial organization. The unique architectural ideas presented contribute to a contemporary urban narrative that addresses both the practical and aesthetic needs of its users. For a comprehensive understanding of the project, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the provided project presentation, which elucidates further details and design decisions that define this architectural endeavor.

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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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