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Charred Wooden Shingles Crafting Sensory Experiences in a Modular Coffee House

Author:
Chihiro Tow
Charred Wooden Shingles Crafting Sensory Experiences in a Modular Coffee House
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a modular, adaptable structure, this coffee house reinterprets traditional Japanese design principles to create an inviting space for cultural exchange and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a modular sliding extension for adaptable space usage.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Integrates interactive window slits to engage passersby and invite curiosity.
05
Emphasizes a genkan entryway for a culturally immersive visitor experience.

### Project Overview
Located at the intersection of Japanese and European cultural influences, the coffee house serves as a platform for cultural exchange, centered around the theme of coffee consumption. Drawing from the design principles of traditional Japanese tea rooms, the structure prioritizes interaction and sensory engagement, creating a setting that encourages social cohesion. The architectural design pays tribute to Japanese ideals while integrating modern elements to establish a unique gathering space.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout comprises three interconnected components: the main coffee area, an adaptable extension, and sliding doors that facilitate flexible spatial arrangements. The design incorporates the principle of ‘niijiri-guchi,’ a feature of traditional Japanese architecture that signifies a transition from the external environment to the introspective atmosphere within. The primary space serves as both a functional barista area and a focal point for customer interaction, while the extension provides additional seating options. This division can be manipulated through the sliding doors, allowing users to customize their experience based on time of day and seasonal changes.

### Materiality and Interaction
The structure employs a thoughtful selection of materials to enhance the user experience and create a dialogue with its surroundings. Concrete forms the primary structural framework, offering durability and a stark contrast to the natural landscape. The warmth and texture of wood are featured in the sliding doors and interior finishes, inviting a sense of comfort. Glass elements, including strategically placed window slits, facilitate a connection between the interior space and the external environment, promoting the flow of natural light and encouraging interaction with passersby. This materiality not only reflects aesthetic considerations but also supports the building's functional and cultural aspirations.

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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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