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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Systems Enhancing Community Farming Experience

Authors:
Jihyuk Choi, Minjeong Song
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Systems Enhancing Community Farming Experience
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and an advanced geothermal heating system, the design creates a seamless integration of sustainable practices and community engagement within a functional farm-to-table restaurant.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique rainwater harvesting system that supports onsite irrigation.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a geothermal heating system for efficient climate control.
04
Includes dedicated hydroponics and aquaponics areas for educational purposes.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to maximize natural light and views.

The Pitchfork Farm & Restaurant is an architectural project that integrates agricultural practices with culinary experiences. Located in a rural setting, this design emphasizes sustainability, community engagement, and the educational aspects of food production. The structure promotes a symbiotic relationship between its operations and the surrounding landscape, showcasing a modern yet practical approach to farm-to-table dining.

The architecture consists of interconnected volumes designed to facilitate various activities, including dining, farming, and community interaction. This configuration allows for flexibility and maximizes natural light and views of the landscape through extensive glazing. The use of durable materials such as concrete, glass, wood, and steel enhances the building's performance and aesthetic appeal. Each material plays a vital role in temperature regulation and the overall functionality of the farm and restaurant.

Sustainable Design Features

One of the key aspects of the Pitchfork Farm & Restaurant is its incorporation of sustainable design strategies. The building employs thermal mass principles to manage indoor climate effectively, utilizing concrete for its heat-retaining properties. The roof design integrates a rainwater harvesting system, supporting irrigation in agricultural areas and reducing reliance on external water sources. Additionally, geothermal heating is utilized to provide an energy-efficient climate system. These elements exemplify contemporary strategies for sustainability within architectural design.

Community-Centric Spaces

Central to this project is its role as a focal point for community engagement. The design includes multipurpose areas for dining, educational workshops, and farmer's markets. This versatility encourages public participation and interaction with local agricultural practices. Particular attention has been paid to the layout to ensure seamless transitions between spaces, facilitating a nurturing atmosphere for education and socialization.

The Pitchfork Farm & Restaurant stands out for its thoughtful integration of agricultural processes into the overall design, marrying function and aesthetic quality. The product of converging architectural innovation, local ecology, and community participation, this project encourages a deeper understanding of the relationship between food systems and the built environment. For additional detailed insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, exploring the full project presentation is recommended.

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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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