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Charred Wooden Shingles and Enamel Finishes in a Communal Housing Solution

Author:
Hui Zhen Ng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Enamel Finishes in a Communal Housing Solution
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and integrated workspaces, the design fosters community engagement while providing efficient living solutions in an adaptable housing framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to quicker construction and structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and facilitates natural light entry.
04
Shared kitchen and social areas encourage community interaction among residents.
05
Modular unit configurations allow for future expansion and adaptability to needs.

The architectural design project presented is a forward-thinking response to the growing challenges of affordable housing. It focuses on communal living while reimagining traditional apartment configurations, particularly suitable for urban and suburban contexts. This project addresses the need for better living conditions by emphasizing community interaction within residential environments.

The design comprises compact individual units combined with shared amenities. Each unit features an efficient layout that typically includes essential living and sleeping spaces, while communal areas are integrated to foster social engagement. The project aims to enhance the quality of life through thoughtful spatial arrangements that promote collaboration among residents.

Design Integration and Community Focus

This project stands out by prioritizing communal living over isolated individual units. Unlike conventional residential designs that often segregate private spaces, this approach encourages shared facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and recreational areas. Such communal spaces are designed to facilitate social gatherings and create a sense of belonging among residents.

Notable features include centralized cooking and dining areas equipped with adaptable seating and cooking surfaces to promote interaction during meal preparation. Workspaces within the private units are configured to allow for flexibility in use, accommodating those who work from home. This integration supports varied lifestyles and fulfills diverse needs in a modern living environment.

Innovative Use of Space and Materials

The project employs an innovative layout that maximizes the functionality of compact spaces. The floor plans articulate a clear division between private and communal areas, ensuring that both aspects are accessible yet distinct. The utilization of modular design principles allows for scalability and adaptability in future developments.

Materials play a pivotal role in this design philosophy. Concrete offers durability and structural integrity, while extensive glazing creates openness and promotes natural light within residences. The inclusion of wood and enamel finishes adds warmth and user-friendly surfaces, contributing to both aesthetics and usability.

Residents are encouraged to engage with each other through the design's strategic placement of shared amenities, which serves to reinforce community ties. The overall arrangement provides opportunities for spontaneous interactions, challenging the notion that contemporary housing needs to prioritize privacy over community connection.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans and sections of this project, it is recommended to explore the detailed design elements presented. This will provide deeper insights into the architectural strategies employed and highlight the approach taken in addressing contemporary housing challenges.

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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.

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