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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Facades Create a Sanctuary for Wellness and Recreation

Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Facades Create a Sanctuary for Wellness and Recreation
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Combining charred wooden shingles with expansive glass facades, this retreat facilitates a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, offering dedicated spaces for relaxation, recreation, and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and space utilization.
04
Includes dedicated wellness spaces like a yoga pavilion with scenic views.
05
Integrates natural landscaping to create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas.

### Overview

El Tiempo Estate is situated on a coastal site that facilitates a harmonious coexistence of nature and wellness. The design aims to serve multiple functions, offering a retreat that caters to relaxation, community engagement, and various recreational activities. The architectural approach prioritizes tranquility while creating an environment conducive to both individual reflection and collective gatherings.

### Spatial Strategy

The estate's layout is strategically organized to support a diverse range of activities. At its center is the main house, designed with an open-concept layout that maximizes the flow of natural light and integrates indoor and outdoor spaces. Surrounding this focal point are two guest accommodations, each offering unique views and privacy. Additional features include a dedicated riding arena designed for equestrian sports, a cross-country course that incorporates various terrains, and wellness spaces including a yoga pavilion and creative areas for art and photography. This configuration facilitates a seamless transition between recreational, social, and restorative experiences.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials at El Tiempo Estate reflects a commitment to both aesthetic and environmental considerations. Concrete is utilized for its structural capabilities while allowing for organic forms that resonate with the surrounding landscape. Expansive glass elements establish a connection with the natural environment, enhancing the overall sense of openness. Wood is used throughout the design, providing warmth and texture, while natural stone is carefully integrated into the landscaping to form pathways and seating areas. The inclusion of sustainable materials ensures that the construction aligns with environmentally responsible practices, thereby reinforcing the estate's philosophy of wellness and ecological mindfulness.

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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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