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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Tiles Form a Sustainable Living Community

Author:
Ronald Janssen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Tiles Form a Sustainable Living Community
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local tiles, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and community living, facilitating social interaction in a carefully crafted multi-story residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates localized tiles to support regional craftsmanship and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that optimize structural performance and sustainability.
04
Incorporates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.
05
Design prioritizes natural light through strategically placed glass elements for enhanced well-being.

### Overview
Located in an urban setting, the project aims to redefine residential living by addressing contemporary social and environmental issues. The design integrates communal spaces with private areas, fostering social interaction while ensuring individual privacy. The intent is to create a supportive living environment that responds to changing societal dynamics, including increased life expectancy and varying family structures.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout features a multi-story structure designed to facilitate community engagement. The ground floor comprises shared areas, including dining and therapy spaces, encouraging interaction among residents. In contrast, the upper floors consist of individual living units, each equipped with private balconies that offer views and personal outdoor space. This configuration allows for a balance between communal activities and quiet retreats.

### Material Selection
A commitment to sustainability is evident in the project's material choices. Wood is extensively used for structural components, providing warmth and inviting aesthetic. Concrete serves as a durable foundational material, while locally sourced tiles for flooring support regional craftsmanship and minimize environmental impact. Glass is incorporated to enhance natural light, and green roofs contribute to insulation and biodiversity. Biodegradable materials are selected to reduce waste and promote ecological responsibility.

### Sustainability Features
The design incorporates features aimed at environmental sustainability, including rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation and geothermal energy for heating and cooling. Natural ventilation strategies are employed throughout to optimize airflow, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Emphasis on native vegetation in landscape design not only enhances the aesthetic but also promotes biodiversity and encourages resident interaction with the natural environment.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
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

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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
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