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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Wood Finish in a Flexible Workspace Design

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Wood Finish in a Flexible Workspace Design
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive natural wood elements, the design creates a flexible workspace that fosters collaboration while respecting the local cultural context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features expansive windows to maximize natural light and connect with the surrounding landscape.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces while minimizing material use.
05
Retains and reconfigures 80% of existing furniture to promote resource efficiency and reduce waste.

### Overview

The architectural design for a new office space in Downtown Honolulu, Hawaii, focuses on integrating contemporary work methods with local cultural and environmental considerations. Developed by the original firm that established the office in 1989, the proposal aims to create a versatile workspace that fosters creativity and productivity while aligning with principles of sustainability.

### Spatial Arrangement

The office is designed to function as a dynamic hub that includes collaborative spaces such as studios and labs, accommodating the increasing preference for hybrid work environments. This layout promotes flexibility, enabling employees to transition between collaborative and individual workspaces seamlessly. The design prioritizes transparency and interaction, featuring large windows and open areas that enhance natural light and provide views of the surrounding landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural identity relies on sustainable practices and the use of local materials. Natural wood finishes are employed to echo the essence of Hawaiian architecture and create a warm, inviting ambiance. The incorporation of biodegradable and recycled materials, including carpets and reclaimed resources, reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact. Furthermore, the project embeds hospitality-related elements, such as open lounges and adaptable meeting areas, fostering a sense of community within the workspace.

Sustainable design is further emphasized through energy-efficient systems and resource optimization, retaining up to 80% of existing furniture to minimize waste. Water and energy conservation initiatives will be implemented to continually assess and improve resource usage over time.

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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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