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Charred Wooden Shingles and Straw-Wood Structure in Accessible Living Design
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Constructed with a straw-wood element and clad in charred wooden shingles, this accessible living space prioritizes adaptability and sustainability while seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Straw-wood element provides exceptional insulation while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance, reducing maintenance needs.
03
Bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and promotes energy efficiency.
04
Accessible features, including adjustable fixtures, ensure independence for all users.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management.

### Project Overview
Located in a context that prioritizes sustainability and accessibility, Pāpilio is designed to meet the housing needs of a couple, with specific considerations for a wheelchair user. The project aims to create an adaptable living environment that fosters a strong connection to nature while promoting an eco-conscious lifestyle. The architectural concept emphasizes flexibility, functionality, and the use of natural materials.

### Spatial Configuration and Accessibility
The architecture features a modular floor plan that enables the seamless transition between various living spaces, including bedrooms and work areas. This adaptability supports the evolving needs of its inhabitants, allowing rooms to serve multiple purposes. The design prioritizes accessibility through well-thought-out elements such as ramps, flexible furniture arrangements, and adjustable fixtures, ensuring ease of movement and independence for all users. Natural light is maximized through strategic window placements, enhancing the indoor atmosphere and encouraging interaction with the surrounding landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. Key features include energy-efficient straw-wood elements used for insulation and external cladding, alongside sustainably sourced thermal wood for added durability. Birch veneered plywood is employed for cabinetry, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, cork flooring contributes to acoustic comfort while maintaining a natural ambiance. The design integrates sustainable strategies such as a rainwater collection system and solar panels to enhance energy self-sufficiency, while natural ventilation methods reduce reliance on mechanical systems, thereby elevating overall environmental performance.

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MICROHOME 2026
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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
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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