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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in a Community-Centric Outdoor Retreat

Author:
Sebastián Bocchi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in a Community-Centric Outdoor Retreat
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this outdoor retreat harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing flexible spaces for community engagement and individual reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features expansive glass facades that promote natural light and views of the landscape.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for a sustainable and efficient construction method.
04
Includes segmented visitor huts, designed for flexibility in occupancy and function.
05
Integrates a meditation deck strategically elevated for optimal tranquility and privacy.

The architectural design project under review encompasses a cohesive outdoor complex that integrates multiple structures within a natural environment. It emphasizes a harmony between human interaction and the surrounding landscape while serving various functions such as accommodation, communal gathering, and artistic exhibition. The design approach prioritizes user experience, functional adaptability, and sustainability, creating a versatile space that accommodates diverse activities.

Unique Design Elements

The architectural layout consists of several distinctive components, each designed for specific purposes while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic and functional relationship. The visitor huts are arranged to offer privacy and comfort while fostering community engagement. The host's hut, larger in scale, serves as a central point for social interactions and shared experiences.

A key feature of the design is the exhibition center, which serves as both an entry point and a multifunctional space. Its transparent glass facade fosters an integration between the interior and exterior, allowing natural light to penetrate the space while providing captivating views of the surrounding nature. This focus on visibility supports its role as a welcome area and community hub.

Another notable aspect of the project is the meditation deck, thoughtfully positioned to enhance tranquility and reflection. Its elevated design enables unobstructed views, promoting a deeper connection with the natural elements. This dedication to creating contemplative spaces sets this project apart from more conventional designs.

Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality plays a crucial role in the architectural expression and function of the project. The use of sustainably sourced wood for cladding and structural elements invokes a sense of warmth and familiarity, reinforcing the relationship between the built environment and nature. Steel is utilized for structural integrity, ensuring durability while allowing for open, flexible spaces.

The combination of these materials contributes to the project's sustainability philosophy, reducing environmental impact while supporting a visually engaging aesthetic. This commitment to ecological sensitivity distinguishes this project, showcasing a modern approach to architecture that respects both the user experience and the natural context.

For those interested in a detailed exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and design elements, further investigation into this project presentation will offer valuable insights. Review the architectural designs and ideas to gain a comprehensive understanding of how this project embodies the principles of contemporary architecture while fostering connection and community.

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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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