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Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Windows Define a Sustainable Microhome Experience

Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Windows Define a Sustainable Microhome Experience
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and incorporating extensive glass facades, the microhome blends sustainable materials with adaptable living spaces to create a self-sufficient retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for added durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural performance and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space while maintaining visual interest.
04
Incorporates large glass facades to maximize natural light and integrate with the surroundings.
05
Equipped with self-sufficient systems for solar power and water purification.

## Project Overview

Two architectural designs, located in natural settings such as riverbanks and mountainous terrains, address the challenges of modern living through compact solutions that prioritize sustainability, functionality, and adaptability. Each design presents unique strategies aimed at creating functional living spaces that remain in harmony with their surrounding environments.

### Spatial Strategy

The microhome is designed as a compact, mobile structure optimized for various site conditions. It incorporates multifunctional furniture and an open layout to maximize interior space while fostering comfort. Large windows enhance this spatial strategy by allowing natural light to permeate the interior, offering views of the landscape and creating a connection with the outdoors. In contrast, the sloped roof house utilizes vertical space effectively by incorporating sleeping quarters within the ceiling area, allowing for more functional living within a limited footprint. Moveable partitions and foldable furniture further enhance adaptability for different occupant needs.

### Material and Environmental Integration

The microhome prioritizes sustainable materiality, utilizing organic components to forge a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. Elements include Kingspan sandwich panels for insulation, concrete for foundational durability, and expansive glass windows that promote visual continuity with nature. Similarly, the sloped roof house employs locally sourced milled wood and glass panels, emphasizing warmth and transparency. Solar panels integrated into the roofing system highlight a commitment to renewable energy, while a metal roof provides resilience against environmental conditions. Both projects underscore a dedication to sustainability, creating spaces that serve contemporary living needs while minimizing ecological impact.

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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.

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

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