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Co-Op Gardens and Fiber Cement Structures in Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Niv Ben-adi
Co-Op Gardens and Fiber Cement Structures in Sustainable Urban Living
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Incorporating co-op gardens and utilizing fiber cement in its construction, the design emphasizes sustainable urban living by fostering community engagement while providing essential housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Co-op gardens promote community involvement in food production.
02
Cross ventilation strategies enhance indoor air quality and comfort.
03
Fiber cement panels provide durability while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
04
Open communal pathways foster social interaction among residents.
05
Native plant landscaping supports local biodiversity and ecology.

The design in San Francisco represents a focused approach to sustainable urban living. It is set within a community framework that encourages a connection to nature and each other. The aim is to create residential units that blend functionality with ecological consciousness. By doing so, it fosters a strong sense of community and environmental responsibility among its residents.

Site Layout and Organization
The project layout includes both couple and family units, designed to promote airflow and make the most of natural light. This configuration helps reduce dependence on artificial cooling and heating systems, which benefits both the residents and the environment. Each unit features outdoor private spaces, allowing residents to connect with the surrounding landscape. A central communal pathway promotes social interaction and offers easy access to outdoor areas, aligning with the project's goals of sustainability and community engagement.

Community Engagement Features
A notable feature of the project is the co-op working garden, which highlights community involvement in food production. This garden allows residents to grow and harvest fresh produce, fostering a spirit of collaboration. It serves as a place for people to gather, share resources, and bond. In this way, the garden not only provides food but also strengthens community ties, making it a vital part of daily life.

Materials and Sustainability
Materials used in the design are chosen for their functional and environmental benefits. Fiber cement wall panels offer durability and good insulation, while the Exterior Insulated and Finish System contributes to energy savings. Perforated aluminum guardrails maintain safety while allowing visibility throughout the space. The use of IPE wood decking ensures a durable surface that can withstand the elements. Glass doors link indoor and outdoor spaces, increasing natural light and improving airflow, while jalousie louvers provide adjustable ventilation, further enhancing comfort for residents.

Interior Functionality and Design
Each family unit is carefully designed to accommodate modern needs, featuring flexible living spaces, including master bedrooms and children's areas. The arrangement allows ease of movement and adaptability for families. This thoughtful layout not only prioritizes individual preferences but also encourages social interaction amongst residents.

Common areas invite active participation in community life. The garden spaces provide an opportunity for fresh food and establish a visual bond with nature, enriching the living experience for everyone involved. The design thus supports a balanced lifestyle, where environmental awareness and community participation go hand in hand.

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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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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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