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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define a Multifunctional Living and Work Space

Authors:
Erik Vodenik, Simon Magerl
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define a Multifunctional Living and Work Space
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and green roofs, the development offers a sustainable mixed-use environment tailored for young creatives, seamlessly blending residential and workspace functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and sustainability.
03
A communal green roof integrates nature into the urban design.
04
Flexible unit configurations accommodate diverse living arrangements.
05
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and views.

## Project Overview

The proposal for affordable housing in Sydney focuses on creating an integrated living environment specifically designed for young professionals and creatives. Addressing the need for affordable housing in an urban context, the initiative aims to respond to contemporary challenges within Sydney's dynamic socio-economic landscape.

## Urban Configuration

The design emphasizes the integration of multiple urban functions—residential, commercial, and recreational—within a cohesive structure. This approach advocates for a compact urban model that fosters community interaction, contrasting with traditional zoning practices that create isolated areas for living, working, and leisure. The proposal envisions a singular structure that accommodates diverse activities, promoting a lifestyle where residents can easily transition between different modes of interaction throughout their day.

### Design Strategies

The spatial organization features interconnected living units arranged around a central communal area, enhancing accessibility and encouraging social engagement. Additional facilities, including a landscaped communal space and mixed-use retail outlets, underpin a sustainable lifestyle that prioritizes proximity to essential services and recreational opportunities. These elements culminate in a design that not only serves residential needs but also nurtures a collaborative atmosphere reflective of the contemporary creative economy.

## Materiality

The selected materials for the project focus on durability and aesthetic coherence while aligning with sustainability objectives. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, ensuring robust support, while recycled bricks contribute both character and environmental responsibility through material reuse. Glass is utilized to enhance transparency and natural lighting throughout the spaces, promoting openness.

### Sustainable Features

Green roofing systems are incorporated to improve thermal performance and support local biodiversity, seamlessly integrating nature into the urban fabric. Additionally, wood elements provide warmth and comfort to living spaces, enhancing the overall user experience. This careful selection of materials underscores a commitment to environmental stewardship while fostering a welcoming atmosphere for future residents.

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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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