Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Joe Myerscough, Ryan Lawlor
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Sustainable Residential Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design emphasizes sustainability and integration with the environment, culminating in a functional residential space that harmonizes modern living with ecological consciousness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and enhance structural integrity.
03
Features a distinctive bent A-frame design that optimizes space and natural light.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
05
Offers a biophilic approach, blending indoor spaces with surrounding landscape elements.

The project under analysis represents a contemporary architectural endeavor characterized by a meticulous integration of form, function, and context. Designed with a focus on creating a cohesive relationship between the built environment and its surroundings, the architecture reflects a thoughtful approach to modern living. The design aims to enhance the user experience through careful consideration of spatial organization, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic appeal.

The primary function of the project involves residential occupancy, where functionality is paramount. The layout is organized to facilitate the daily activities of its inhabitants while providing spaces for social interaction, work, and relaxation. Emphasis has been placed on creating a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the overall livability of the space. Large windows and open-plan layouts allow for an abundance of natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its commitment to sustainable design principles. The architects have integrated a variety of eco-friendly materials and techniques that minimize environmental impact while promoting energy efficiency. Notable materials employed include recycled steel for structural frameworks, sustainably sourced timber for finishes, and high-performance glazing that enhances thermal insulation. These materials not only support sustainability but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the design.

The architectural approach leverages local building traditions while incorporating modern design techniques, ensuring that the project resonates with its geographical context. This cultural consideration creates a sense of place and connection with the community, differentiating it from other projects that may overlook these elements. Additionally, the project showcases innovative design solutions such as green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems, which contribute to its environmental goals.

In examining the architectural features, the use of varying materials across different facades enhances visual interest and breaks the uniformity typical of similar types of buildings. The interplay between hard and soft landscape elements, including strategically placed greenery, not only provides ecological benefits but also serves as a visual and sensory experience for the residents.

Exploring this project further can provide valuable insights into its architectural plans, sections, and overall design philosophy. For those interested in contemporary architecture that merges functionality with environmental consciousness, reviewing these architectural ideas may yield a comprehensive understanding of the project's unique attributes and relevance in today’s built environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Home of 
Shadows
The Home of Shadows
The light studies. Edition #4
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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

`
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

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
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
new
Iceland 
Slow Sauna

Design slow sauna in Iceland

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 26 November 2025
Concrete 
Pavilion

Design a concrete pavilion

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
new
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 21 January 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

new
The Home of 
Shadows

Design a home with no artificial lighting

The light studies. Edition #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility OPEN TO ALL
Early bird registration deadline 5 November 2025
The Last 
Nuclear Bomb Memorial

Design a memorial that speaks to the cause of ending all nuclear weapons programs

Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 13 November 2025
new
The Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 20 November 2025
Hospice - 
Home for the 
Terminally ill

Design a safe and supportive space to those struggling with a terminal illness

Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 10,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #7 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #2 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 3 December 2025
The Architect’s 
Stair

Take a step and make a statement!

Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 January 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 26 February 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy