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Charred Wooden Shingles and Wind Energy Integration in Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Author:
Jelena Koneva
Charred Wooden Shingles and Wind Energy Integration in Sustainable Trekking Cabins
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a wind energy system, these trekking cabins provide sustainable accommodation harmonized with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins feature a green roof to enhance insulation and support local biodiversity.
02
Incorporate a wind energy system for sustainable power generation on-site.
03
Interiors designed with multifunctional bunk beds and communal spaces for optimized use.
04
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Utilize cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and quick assembly.

## Overview
The Amber Road Trekking Cabins are located in a forested area, designed to facilitate engagement with the surrounding environment while considering modern sustainability practices. The project blends traditional log house architecture with contemporary elements to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal, prioritizing an immersive outdoor experience.

## Architectural Configuration
The cabins feature a distinctive pent roof designed to support an extensive green roof system. This architectural choice enhances insulation, encourages biodiversity, and integrates the structure with the landscape. The roofline extends to allow ample natural light into the living spaces while providing shelter for outdoor areas, promoting a cohesive relationship between indoor environments and nature.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of materials emphasizes both durability and ecological responsibility. The primary construction material, logs, offers natural aesthetics and structural integrity. Glass panels are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and views, creating a sense of openness. Timber elements, along with optional brick fireplaces, enhance warmth and comfort within the interiors. Outdoor areas utilize gravel to facilitate drainage while maintaining a natural appearance. A 300-watt wind generator underscores the commitment to renewable energy, complementing features like rainwater harvesting systems. The extensive green roof not only bolsters energy efficiency but also supports local flora and fauna, further intertwining the cabins with their ecosystem.

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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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