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Charred Wooden Shingles Create Inviting Harmony in Modular Senior Living Spaces

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Charred Wooden Shingles Create Inviting Harmony in Modular Senior Living Spaces
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and large glass openings, the design fosters a strong connection between private living units and communal gardens, creating an accessible and engaging environment for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
The design includes communal gardens that residents can actively tend to, promoting engagement.
03
Large glass openings optimize natural light and enhance connectivity with outdoor spaces.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed to create a sustainable structural system.
05
The layout prioritizes accessibility, featuring wide pathways and mobility aids throughout.

### Overview

The community living project is located in a tranquil setting designed specifically for the elderly population. It aims to enhance social interaction, independence, and connectivity among residents, reflecting the philosophy that community cohesion is vital to improving quality of life for seniors. The architectural approach incorporates modular living units linked by outdoor pathways, emphasizing both navigation and social engagement while addressing the isolation often faced by older adults.

### Spatial Configuration and Social Integration

The design prioritizes a balance between private and communal spaces, fostering a harmonious lifestyle. The arrangement of modular units encourages interaction among residents, facilitating a supportive community. Key features include multi-functional social areas—such as dining rooms and relaxation zones—that serve as gathering points, while private units are crafted to provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Additionally, communal gardens are integrated within the layout, promoting therapeutic gardening practices and encouraging physical activity.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices in the project reflect a commitment to both functionality and aesthetic significance. The use of concrete ensures structural integrity, while wood finishes add warmth and a homelike atmosphere. Generous use of glass promotes transparency and visual connection to the outdoors, and metal elements provide shading and privacy. These materials not only serve practical purposes but also align with an overarching design ethos that emphasizes community, comfort, and sustainability. The inclusion of gardens and sustainable pathways underlines an environmentally conscious approach, integrating green philosophy into the living experience.

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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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