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Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Community Living in Prefabricated Modular Units

Author:
Egil Ljungkvist
Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Community Living in Prefabricated Modular Units
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Crafted with charred wooden shingles and a focus on modularity, this design redefines community living by merging functionality with sustainable materials to create efficient residential units.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from sustainably sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural integrity and reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes space and encourages natural light infiltration.
04
Modular units designed for adaptability, allowing customizable layouts based on resident needs.
05
Includes communal green spaces that promote social interaction among residents while enhancing biodiversity.

The architectural design project "Ben's Land" represents a thoughtful exploration of modular living, emphasizing community, sustainability, and functionality. The project is characterized by prefabricated living units that cater to a minimalist lifestyle while promoting social interaction among residents. Each modular unit incorporates essential functions such as sleeping, cooking, and communal spaces, providing an efficient solution for housing in urban settings.

Modular Design and Spatial Efficiency

"Ben's Land" employs a modular design approach, allowing for flexibility in living arrangements. Each unit is composed of multiple slices, ensuring that essential living functions are efficiently organized without compromising comfort. The architectural design prioritizes spatial efficiency, making use of every square foot to serve multiple purposes. Glass facades are strategically integrated to enhance natural light, creating a sense of openness within the smaller living spaces. Furthermore, the design incorporates outdoor areas, including shared gardens and terraces, increasing the sense of community among residents.

Sustainability and Community Engagement

A defining aspect of "Ben's Land" is its focus on sustainability. The project integrates natural materials such as wood and concrete, promoting durability and a connection to the environment. The structures are designed to minimize energy consumption, with opportunities for residents to co-manage resources through communal facilities. Unique to this project is the mobile application that facilitates shared resources, allowing residents to access communal spaces like kitchens and activity rooms. This feature not only enhances the living experience but also reduces individual resource consumption, embodying sustainable community living.

Choice of Materials and Structural Innovations

The architectural design employs a variety of materials strategically selected for their functional and aesthetic qualities. Concrete forms the primary structural element, providing stability and insulation. The use of glass ensures transparency and visual connectivity, allowing residents to feel connected to outdoor spaces. Wood is present in interior finishes, adding warmth and comfort to the living environment. Additionally, metal components are incorporated for structural support and to enhance modern aesthetics. The interplay of these materials contributes to a cohesive design that aligns with the project’s overarching goals of functionality and sustainability.

Exploring "Ben's Land" offers valuable insights into enhancing urban living through architectural innovation. To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural strategies and design elements, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas associated with the project is highly encouraged. Visit the project’s presentation for a comprehensive analysis.

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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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