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Coconut Filtered Waste System in a Red Cedar Home with 360-Degree Views

Author:
Maoudi Paulette Loko
Coconut Filtered Waste System in a Red Cedar Home with 360-Degree Views
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With a design that incorporates a coconut-filtered waste system and a structure made primarily of red cedar, this home offers expansive 360-degree views in a setting thoughtfully integrated into the mountainous landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glued laminated timber forms the main structural framework.
02
The design includes a unique 360-degree opening for panoramic views.
03
A coconut-filtered waste treatment system supports sustainability.
04
Red cedar cladding enhances both durability and aesthetic warmth.
05
Interior paneling creates a cohesive and inviting living environment.

The Nest is an architectural design inspired by the form and function of a bird's nest, located in a mountainous setting. It serves as a refuge that aims to connect with nature while providing comfort to its occupants. The design features a circular shape, which allows for open views and ample natural light. This approach not only prioritizes inclusivity but also enhances the overall experience for anyone living in the space.

Design Concept

The layout includes a central circulation area that links various functional spaces. These spaces involve a relaxation zone, a dining area, a bedding area, and a bathroom. This organization promotes easy movement and interaction, creating a harmonious flow between private and shared areas. The 360-degree opening in the structure enables bright daylight to enter and permits expansive views of the surrounding landscape, allowing the inhabitants to feel connected to the outdoors.

Materiality

Materials have been chosen to support both the structure's strength and its visual appeal. The main framework uses glued laminated timber, a material that offers both durability and flexibility. The outer lathing and cladding consist of red cedar, known for its aesthetic warmth and ability to withstand various weather conditions. Inside, paneling creates a welcoming environment, while the roof is layered with EPDM rubber to ensure waterproofing and longevity.

Sustainability Considerations

The design also prioritizes sustainability with an innovative waste treatment system. It employs a coconut filter, which enables the recovery of compost that can be used in agriculture. This method helps to reduce the environmental footprint of the building. Solar panels are included to support energy efficiency, reflecting an emphasis on using renewable energy sources.

Visual Integration

Visual representations of The Nest illustrate how it fits within the landscape. The form of the building engages with the surrounding terrain, showing how natural features can influence design choices. The facades create a balance between solid and transparent elements, enhancing the relationship between inside and outside. Unique architectural details invite both reflection and appreciation, offering a calm and serene living environment where occupants can immerse themselves in nature.

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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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