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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Community-Centric Design

Author:
Manuel Collado Arpia
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Community-Centric Design
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a cohesive community space that fosters interaction while emphasizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Uses cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes space while enhancing natural light penetration.
04
Includes integrated solar panels to support sustainable energy consumption for community activities.
05
Provides flexible communal areas designed for various functions, promoting community engagement and interaction.

The project under analysis exemplifies a contemporary architectural approach that is deeply responsive to its context and user needs. Strategically situated in an urban environment, the design integrates functional spaces with an aesthetic consideration that complements the surrounding area. The overall form is characterized by clean lines and an emphasis on transparency and light, creating an inviting atmosphere while maintaining a strong visual identity.

This architectural design serves multiple functions, including residential and communal activities. It aims to foster social interaction and enhance community connectivity. The layout is organized to promote accessibility, with thoughtful circulation paths that guide users through the space. The incorporation of flexible areas allows for diverse uses, accommodating both private living and public gatherings.

The project's design uniquely incorporates sustainable practices, distinguishing it from other projects within the same category. It integrates renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, that reduce the carbon footprint and promote energy efficiency. The use of natural ventilation strategies enhances indoor air quality while minimizing reliance on mechanical systems for climate control. This thoughtful design consideration is pivotal in creating a harmonious balance between functionality and ecological responsibility.

The materiality of the project plays a crucial role in its identity. The selection of materials includes locally sourced stone, glass, and timber, which not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also resonates with regional character. Large glass panels provide transparency between interior and exterior spaces, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the building while offering views of the surrounding landscape. Timber elements contribute warmth and texture, creating a comforting ambiance.

The structural expression of the building stands out due to its innovative use of cantilevers and overhangs, which provide shade to outdoor spaces while also creating dynamic visual lines. These architectural features not only serve practical purposes but also contribute to the overall sculptural quality of the design.

The project uniquely addresses local climate considerations, with features that respond effectively to seasonal variations. Shading devices and overhangs are skillfully integrated to mitigate heat gain during warmer months, while thermal mass strategies ensure comfort during cooler periods. This sensitivity to climatic conditions is an essential aspect of its design, ensuring user comfort year-round.

The thoughtful arrangement of spaces within the project encourages interaction and engagement. Common areas are strategically placed to foster community relationships, while private zones are distinctly separated yet easily accessible. This organization reflects an understanding of human behavior and emphasizes the importance of social connections in residential environments.

In summary, this architectural project presents a technically sound and contextually responsive design that integrates functionality with sustainable practices. Its use of materiality, innovative structural solutions, and attention to social interaction sets it apart from similar projects. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further for detailed insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that illuminate the project's vision.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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