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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Sips Define Compact Urban Living Solution

Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Sips Define Compact Urban Living Solution
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Featuring charred wooden shingles and structural insulated panels, this compact urban dwelling provides an adaptable living space designed for sustainability and efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for exterior durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates structural insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency and insulation.
03
Features a modular interior layout that adapts to varying space requirements.
04
Includes rooftop gardens to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure for optimal space utilization and aesthetic appeal.

**Overview**

The Micro-Macro House is situated in an urban context that confronts the challenges of affordable housing. Its design integrates innovative solutions designed to enhance both micro-living experiences and macro-level sustainability. The intent is to create a residential model that not only meets the spatial and social needs of young urban residents but also enhances community connectivity through a holistic architectural approach.

**Spatial Adaptability and Community Integration**

The architectural strategy is characterized by a dual focus on adaptability and community engagement. The living spaces are engineered to be modular, allowing for various configurations that cater to changing occupant needs. Covering a compact area of 25 square meters, these spaces can function as workspaces, social environments, and sleeping areas, thus promoting a versatile lifestyle. Community-building elements are embedded within the design, creating opportunities for shared experiences and fostering connections among residents, which addresses the growing need for social interaction in urban settings.

**Material Selection and Environmental Considerations**

The construction materials used in the Micro-Macro House prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. Key features include a framed timber structure that utilizes renewable resources, along with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) that enhance energy conservation by regulating indoor temperatures. Additionally, the integration of solar panels functions to promote energy self-sufficiency. Interior spaces benefit from abundant natural light and ventilation through strategically placed large windows, which improve occupant well-being. Landscaping elements such as roof gardens and small agricultural plots contribute to biodiversity and air quality, aligning with the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

This multifaceted approach to material selection and spatial design culminates in a dwelling that not only meets individual needs but also addresses broader ecological and social imperatives.

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The Next House: USA
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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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