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Charred Wooden Shingles and Volcanic Rock Shaping a Subterranean Community Hub

Charred Wooden Shingles and Volcanic Rock Shaping a Subterranean Community Hub
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and volcanic rock, the design integrates seamlessly into a geothermal landscape, creating a subterranean community hub that fosters interaction and engagement among visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced volcanic rock to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic cohesion.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and natural weathering properties.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes internal space and creates dynamic visual interest.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable construction and efficient assembly.
05
Integrates geothermal energy systems to optimize energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

### Overview
Located in a volcanic landscape, the design engages with its unique geological context, drawing inspiration from geothermal activity. The intent is to create a space that fosters interaction with natural forces, offering visitors an immersive experience that celebrates the region's geological phenomena. The architectural concept integrates elements of water, fire, and earth, positioning itself within a framework that emphasizes ecological sustainability and the potential for eco-tourism.

### Spatial Configuration and Contextual Integration
The upper design features expansive green landscapes, enhancing the structure's relationship with the surrounding terrain. Architectural elements resonate with volcanic formations, embodying organic forms that reflect and respect the natural environment. Below ground, multiple interconnected spaces mirror the dynamics of lava flows, creating a fluid layout conducive to various functions, including retail and communal areas. The use of rounded forms and soft lines within these subterranean spaces promotes a welcoming atmosphere, contrasting with the rigid topography of the volcanic rock.

### Material and Sustainable Practices
Material selection plays a crucial role in reinforcing the project’s identity and sustainability. Locally sourced volcanic rock ensures environmental compatibility, while glass elements are incorporated to enhance natural lighting and facilitate connections with the exterior landscape. The presence of warm timber tones contributes to a tactile quality, fostering an inviting ambiance in viewpoint-heavy spaces. Concrete likely serves as a foundational material, offering durability against environmental elements while maintaining structural integrity. The design not only focuses on innovative material use but also emphasizes the integration of geothermal energy, reinforcing the commitment to eco-friendly architectural practices.

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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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