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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define a Versatile Mixed-Use Structure

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define a Versatile Mixed-Use Structure
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and an innovative Access Canyon, the design creates a seamless blend of natural light and flexible space in a mixed-use structure that accommodates residential, commercial, and communal functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an Access Canyon to optimize natural light distribution throughout the building.
02
Features a multi-layered façade that enhances thermal performance and visual interest.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Integrates green roof systems to promote biodiversity and reduce heat island effect.
05
Designed with flexible floor plans to accommodate changing community needs over time.

**Project Overview**
Located in a rapidly evolving urban environment, the mixed-use building "Timeless 2025-2125" is designed to accommodate the diverse needs of its users through a neutral-use philosophy. This approach supports the seamless integration of residential, commercial, and communal functions within a single structure, responding to the dynamic nature of contemporary living and working spaces. The incorporation of natural light and communal areas enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the building, fostering an environment conducive to interaction and engagement.

**Spatial Strategy and Functional Adaptability**
The design prioritizes versatility, allowing the structure to accommodate various uses without extensive alterations. An organized natural usage grid facilitates efficient spatial arrangements and user interactions. Key features, such as the "Access Canyon," are implemented strategically to improve light penetration and the overall indoor atmosphere, ultimately reducing energy consumption. Public terraces and communal spaces are incorporated throughout the design, encouraging social interaction and promoting a sense of community.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to both durability and aesthetic appeal. Brick is employed for its thermal mass and energy efficiency, while glass elements enhance transparency and visual connectivity. Structural components often utilize metal for modernity and sustainability, complemented by concrete for strength and versatility. Additionally, green roof systems are integrated to support biodiversity and improve insulation. The use of wood in public terraces and interior finishes emphasizes a connection to nature, further reinforcing the sustainability goals of the project.

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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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