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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Gareth Marriott
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions
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Charred wooden shingles envelop a framework of timber, creating a distinctive facade that fosters community engagement through flexible living spaces in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and sustainability.
03
Flexible living units can adapt to various family structures and needs.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems support environmental efficiency.
05
Community courtyards are designed to foster social interactions among residents.

The Kitchen Living project is an architectural endeavor focused on creating a livable community space in an urban environment. Situated in San Francisco, this project emphasizes communal living and sustainable practices, integrating design elements that foster social interactions and adaptability. The central theme revolves around the kitchen as a pivotal area for both nourishment and community engagement, reflecting contemporary lifestyle needs within urban settings.

The project consists of multiple clusters of residential units that promote a sense of community while allowing for privacy. Each cluster features shared amenities, including communal dining areas and gardens that serve as gathering spaces for residents. This approach encourages community-building through organic interactions, integrating living spaces designed for collaborative and individual use.

Innovative Spatial Planning
The Kitchen Living project utilizes innovative spatial planning techniques to differentiate itself from typical housing developments. By arranging living units in clusters, the design maximizes social interaction while maintaining private living spaces. The layout includes flexible dwelling types, enabling families of varying sizes to inhabit the same community without compromising individual needs. This versatility reflects changing family dynamics and urban shifts, making the project relevant to a broad demographic.

Sustainability is a key characteristic of this project. The choice of materials, such as timber and recycled components, is carefully considered to minimize the environmental impact. The use of energy-efficient systems and natural light reduces the overall energy consumption of the buildings. Moreover, features such as rainwater harvesting enhance the sustainable approach, reinforcing the commitment to environmentally friendly design practices.

Functional Integration of Communal Spaces
Communal spaces are integrated into the design to enhance the living experience. The kitchen serves as the focal point where residents can gather, share meals, and participate in community activities. The presence of shared gardens and open courtyards encourages residents to engage with nature and fosters a sense of belonging. This functional integration of communal areas distinguishes Kitchen Living from conventional residential projects, where individual units often lack connectivity to broader community frameworks.

The project consists of timber frame construction, utilizing materials that reflect a sustainable ethos while providing durability. Each unit's design allows for adjustments, catering to evolving lifestyles, ensuring long-term adaptability. The architectural approach taken here not only addresses immediate housing needs but also positions the project as a model for future developments that prioritize community and sustainability.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs in more detail, it is encouraged to review the full project presentation. The Kitchen Living project stands as a practical illustration of contemporary architectural ideas that align living spaces with the needs of modern urban dwellers.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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.

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
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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