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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Elevate Urban Housing Solutions

Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Elevate Urban Housing Solutions
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and reinforced concrete, this urban housing solution transforms under-utilized infrastructure into compact living spaces that enhance community connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for effective structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and promote natural light.
04
Integrates urban greenery through extensive green roofs to contribute to biodiversity.
05
Transforms under-utilized areas beneath infrastructure into functional communal living spaces.

### Project Overview

Located in Cape Town, South Africa, the project integrates residential units with existing urban infrastructure in a densely populated context, specifically beneath established bridges. This design addresses the dual objectives of maximizing urban density while providing green, livable spaces. The intent is to cultivate community interaction and promote sustainable living solutions through innovative spatial strategies.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout consists of three distinct housing types tailored to accommodate various resident needs. Each unit is designed with compact living spaces that optimize functionality and comfort while allowing for flexibility in arrangement according to individual lifestyles. Public areas include urban parks and pedestrian walkways, enhancing connectivity and social interaction within the community. These communal spaces, situated beneath and around elevated structures, support outdoor activities and encourage a walkable, environmentally friendly urban experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The materials selected for construction prioritize sustainability and durability. Reinforced concrete forms the primary structural framework, supporting elevated living spaces while ensuring longevity. Timber is employed in residential units, promoting warmth and an organic aesthetic through the use of engineered wood. Extensive glazing is utilized in façades to enhance natural light and connect residents with their surroundings. Green roofs are integrated to manage stormwater and improve residents' quality of life by incorporating nature into the living environment. This approach minimizes the environmental impact of new construction by repurposing existing infrastructure while fostering social cohesion through thoughtful design.

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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
Eligibility Open to all
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