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 Large Glazing in a Forest-Integrated Dwelling

Author:
Wellington Marinho
Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Glazing in a Forest-Integrated Dwelling
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements define a dwelling that seamlessly integrates into its forested surroundings, offering sustainable living within a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Large glass panels maximize natural light and connect interior spaces with the forest.
03
Cross-laminated timber construction offers strength and sustainability in a compact design.
04
A bent A-frame structure reduces material use while optimizing space and stability.
05
Retractable overhangs extend outdoor living areas and improve weather adaptability.

The architectural design project presents a compact modern dwelling situated in a forested landscape. This design epitomizes a sustainable approach to contemporary living and emphasizes a strong connection with nature. The structure exhibits clean lines and geometric forms that blend cohesively with the surrounding environment, showcasing an architectural philosophy focused on simplicity and functionality.

Integration with nature is a driving factor in the project. Extensive use of glass allows for abundant natural light and creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The dwelling utilizes large openings that frame views of the natural landscape, promoting an enhanced living experience. This intentional design choice encourages occupants to engage with their environment actively.

Sustainable design elements are prominent throughout the project. The incorporation of solar panels exemplifies a commitment to renewable energy, reducing dependency on traditional energy sources. Use of eco-friendly materials, such as wood and concrete, enriches both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the architecture. The project also strategically utilizes outdoor space, combining a retractable overhang with an outdoor deck that enhances versatility for various weather conditions.

The use of materials plays a critical role in the overall architectural narrative. Wood is employed for both structural and aesthetic purposes, bringing warmth to the interior while ensuring structural integrity. Steel provides essential strength and allows for large glass panels, which are a fundamental aspect of the design. Concrete acts as a durable base that combines modernity with reliability. Each material is selected for its sustainability and visual harmony with the natural setting.

Interior spaces are designed with a focus on efficiency and comfort. The layout of the living space advocates for social interaction, enhanced by the visual continuity created with the outdoors. The bedroom is oriented for privacy, with large glass doors that connect it to the exterior. The compact bathroom is optimized for functionality, indicative of contemporary architectural practices.

This project distinguishes itself by prioritizing sustainability while maintaining aesthetic value through simplicity and coherence. The design's commitment to transparency and the interplay of natural elements create a unique living experience distinct from conventional residential projects. The harmonious balance of indoor and outdoor environments reflects a modern understanding of architecture that resonates with current trends in sustainable living.

For a more detailed exploration of the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to investigate the comprehensive project presentation. This will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches applied throughout the design process.

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