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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Andrea Bosio, Cristina Caprioli
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Sustainable Urban Living
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and biophilic design principles, the residential complex redefines urban living by offering modular units that promote adaptability and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and light.
04
Integrates adaptable living spaces with movable partitions for personalized layouts.
05
Encourages communal interaction through strategically designed shared areas.

### Overview

"Bending Standards" is an architectural project situated near the Termini railway station in Rome, designed to address the complexities of urban collective living. The intent is to create adaptable living spaces that cater to a diverse demographic, fostering both privacy and communal interactions. The project integrates modern design principles to enhance inclusivity and responds to the challenges of contemporary urban environments.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The design features a series of modular units that balance private and communal areas, strategically allocating spaces for sleeping, cooking, bathing, and social gatherings. Central to this layout is the living room, functioning as an informal gathering hub, equipped with movable seating to accommodate various activities. The compact kitchen is designed for flexibility, facilitating interactions during meal preparation while occupying a minimal footprint. Each unit's bedroom reflects a dual approach to privacy and community, while the efficient bathroom design emphasizes utility without compromising comfort.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materiality of the project underscores a commitment to sustainability and user-centric design. Predominant materials include wood, which imparts warmth, glass for transparency and natural light, concrete for structural integrity, and textiles in movable partitions to enhance flexibility. This thoughtful selection not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the spaces but also aligns with biophilic design principles, enhancing the relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The integration of greenery in and around the buildings further reinforces this environmental sensitivity.

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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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