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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Flexible Family Housing

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Flexible Family Housing
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this adaptable family housing solution offers a sustainable approach to affordable living while prioritizing flexibility in spatial organization.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote rapid construction and flexibility.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and space efficiency.
04
Integrates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
05
Offers modular expansions to adapt to evolving family needs over time.

### Project Overview
Located in the Netherlands, the architectural design addresses the pressing issue of declining birth rates and the challenge of providing affordable housing for young families. The project features a flexible structure that allows individuals to transition from renting to homeownership, promoting stability in their living situations. The adaptable design accommodates varying family needs, thereby prioritizing sustainable housing solutions.

### Adaptability and Space Utilization
The design prioritizes adaptability and efficient use of space. Initially configured as a compact unit for couples, the structure can be extended to accommodate growing families. Cost efficiency is achieved through the use of an innovative wood framework paired with insulated panels, which facilitate easy assembly and disassembly using dry connections. This approach not only reduces costs but also allows for easy modification of living spaces. A thoughtfully organized floor plan delineates public zones for social interaction and private areas for relaxation, incorporating semi-private hallways that create a sense of connectivity among spaces.

### Sustainable Features and Materiality
The project integrates advanced sustainable elements to address the region's increasing rainfall. A rainwater collection system directs water to a storage tank, making it available for use in kitchen and bathroom fixtures. The roof's southern exposure allows for the installation of solar panels, which power an energy-efficient heating system utilizing a heat pump. Material selection emphasizes durability and functionality, incorporating Kingspan LEC Quadro panels for insulation and a robust wood structure that supports future modifications. An integrated filtration garden enhances the project's ecological performance, further aligning with its sustainable design principles.

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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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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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