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Communal Living Enhanced by Prefabricated Concrete and Perforated Steel

Author:
Gaby Khoriaty
Communal Living Enhanced by Prefabricated Concrete and Perforated Steel
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With its integration of prefabricated prestressed concrete and perforated steel, the design fosters a sense of community through flexible living arrangements in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Five modular forms allow for diverse living configurations within a single urban footprint.
02
The ground floor integrates commercial spaces to enhance community interaction among residents.
03
Rooftop communal areas promote outdoor socialization while maximizing urban views.
04
Prefabricated concrete construction minimizes waste and supports rapid assembly.
05
Perforated steel elements provide both aesthetic appeal and functional shading.

The design focuses on collective living in urban areas, emphasizing adaptability and modularity. By addressing the challenges of modern housing, it aims to create a living environment that meets diverse needs. The project looks to foster community interaction while integrating sustainable practices, providing a solution in a setting where space is often limited.

MODULAR DESIGN APPROACH

Five primary forms serve as the basis for the project, including Single Elements, Double Elements, Triple Elements, Straight configurations, "L" Shapes, and Quadruple Elements. Each unit is derived from a basic module of 4.8 meters by 4.8 meters. These forms can be arranged both horizontally and vertically. This flexibility allows for a variety of configurations, accommodating different tenant demographics and preferences.



COMMUNITY INTERACTION

A strong focus is placed on community building through shared spaces. The overall layout encourages social interaction among residents. Shared areas are designed for communal cooking, childcare, and leisure activities. By integrating these spaces, the design creates opportunities for residents to engage with one another, emphasizing connections that often get lost in urban settings.



GROUND FLOOR FUNCTIONALITY

The ground floor acts as a semi-public space, providing essential services like coffee shops, nurseries, and small retail shops. This design choice promotes community engagement and ensures that daily needs are easily accessible. The ground floor becomes a lively hub, where residents can gather and socialize, enriching the living experience.



SUSTAINABILITY IN MATERIALS

Sustainability plays a key role in the overall design. The project proposes the use of prefabricated prestressed concrete posts and beams, sandwich panels with thermal insulation, perforated steel for balconies, and stainless steel cables. These materials contribute to energy efficiency and help minimize waste. The thoughtful selection of materials not only improves durability but also simplifies construction, aligning with the goal of sustainability.



Rooftop areas are designed as communal spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors. These areas offer spots for relaxation and socialization, enhancing the living experience while providing views of the surrounding environment.

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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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