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Charred Wooden Shingles and Poured Concrete Harmonize in a Fluid Residential Space

Author:
Dakota Walters
Charred Wooden Shingles and Poured Concrete Harmonize in a Fluid Residential Space
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cast-in-place concrete, the residence blurs the boundaries between indoor living and natural settings, providing a flexible space that adapts to both personal and communal functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features large glass openings to maximize natural light and integrate indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize spatial efficiency and visual connection to the landscape.
05
Adapts flexible spaces for various functions, fostering communal and private interactions.

Cloud House is an innovative architectural project that explores the integration of residential living with natural landscapes and virtual environments. This design redefines domestic spaces by emphasizing open layouts, substantial interaction with nature, and the incorporation of advanced digital technologies. The architectural framework creates a sense of fluidity, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living, while facilitating a modern lifestyle that values connectivity with both the environment and digital platforms.

Unique Design Approaches and Elements

One of the defining aspects of Cloud House is its unique approach to spatial organization. The design features flexible spaces that can be adapted for various functions, catering to needs for communal gathering as well as private retreat. The incorporation of a meeting room equipped with virtual reality technology allows occupants to have immersive interactions while residing in a home environment. Large glass openings enable unobstructed views and natural ventilation, creating a seamless transition between the interior and the surrounding landscape.

The structural design employs cast-in-place concrete for primary elements, ensuring durability and a sense of permanence. Additionally, marble countertops provide aesthetic appeal and functionality in kitchen areas, while wooden details throughout the home add warmth and texture. Vertical wood panels serve dual purposes as cabinetry and decorative features, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials.

Integration with Nature

Cloud House emphasizes its relationship with the surrounding ecosystem, strategically located amidst an island frame defined by a pond and rich vegetation. This environment not only enhances the visual experience but also promotes a sense of tranquility. The outdoor areas are designed to engage residents, with pathways connecting various spaces that encourage exploration and interaction with the natural world.

This architectural design prioritizes sustainability and ecological sensitivity, reflecting a broader trend in modern architecture that seeks to minimize environmental impact through thoughtful material selection and site integration. The choice of renewable resources ensures that the footprint remains low, while the open layout allows for maximum light and airflow.

In summary, Cloud House presents a compelling study in contemporary architecture that merges traditional concepts of home with innovative design solutions. The integration of digital interactions and extensive natural engagement represents a significant shift in how residential projects can function in harmony with their surroundings. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and ideas surrounding Cloud House, it is encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of its design philosophy and outcomes.

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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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