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Charred Wooden Shingles Emphasize Eco-Friendly Design in Versatile Community Facility

Authors:
Charlie Pye, Volodymyr Opanasiuk, James Gregan
Charred Wooden Shingles Emphasize Eco-Friendly Design in Versatile Community Facility
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates sustainable materials and innovative construction methods to create a multifunctional community facility that fosters collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and natural light.
04
Designed with adaptable spaces that can be reconfigured for various community events.
05
Integrates a green roof system to promote biodiversity and reduce energy consumption.

The project is a contemporary architectural design that integrates modern functionality with contextual sensitivity. It serves as a multipurpose facility, aimed at fostering community engagement while accommodating various activities. The architectural design emphasizes clarity, simplicity, and efficiency, prioritizing the user experience and sustainability throughout its conception.

The building's layout is characterized by open floor plans that encourage collaboration and interaction among users. Upon entry, visitors encounter a spacious atrium that seamlessly connects different areas of the facility. This central hub serves not only as a circulation space but also as a gathering point, featuring large windows that invite ample natural light, enhancing the sense of openness.

The spatial organization includes designated zones for specific activities, such as meeting rooms, recreational spaces, and exhibition areas. Each zone is equipped with flexible furnishings, allowing for adaptability based on the changing needs of the community. The design places a strong emphasis on accessibility, ensuring that all areas are navigable for individuals of varying mobility.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project, with numerous eco-friendly practices implemented throughout. The exterior cladding utilizes locally sourced materials, which not only reduces transportation emissions but also ties the building to its regional context. The roof features a green space that provides insulation and reduces heat island effect, contributing to the facility's energy efficiency. Rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels further enhance the building's sustainable profile, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship.

The unique approach to material selection plays a critical role in giving the project its distinct character. A combination of raw textured concrete and warm wooden accents creates a balanced aesthetic that is both modern and inviting. These materials were chosen not only for their visual impact but also for their durability and low maintenance requirements, aligning with the building’s sustainability goals.

Innovative design techniques were employed to maximize natural lighting and ventilation throughout the structure. Strategically placed skylights and operable windows facilitate airflow and reduce dependency on artificial lighting and climate control systems. This attention to environmental comfort reflects a comprehensive understanding of the surrounding climate and emphasizes the building's role as a healthy space for its users.

The project demonstrates a focus on blending functionality with aesthetic considerations, offering a fresh perspective in the realm of architectural designs. Its community-oriented nature reinforces the importance of public space in urban environments, enabling various cultural and social functions.

For those seeking further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, an in-depth exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. Understanding these elements will provide a clearer picture of the architectural ideas and methodologies that have shaped this contemporary facility.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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