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Cross-Laminated Timber Integration with Rainwater Harvesting in Flexible Community Living

Cross-Laminated Timber Integration with Rainwater Harvesting in Flexible Community Living
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber and enhanced by a rainwater harvesting system, this flexible living space fosters community engagement while prioritizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber, enhancing structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
03
Features a flexible layout that allows for expansion and contraction based on user needs.
04
Utilizes a rainwater harvesting system for resource efficiency and self-sufficiency.
05
Designed with communal spaces that encourage social interaction within the living environment.

### Project Overview
Manateer proposes a modular living solution designed to address contemporary housing needs while fostering community engagement. Located in a landscape rich in natural resources, the project prioritizes environmental sustainability and serves as a prototype for community-centric architecture. The design reflects an understanding of diverse lifestyles, blending individual and communal spaces to promote social connectivity and adaptability.

### Modular Strategy and Adaptability
The core principle of Manateer is its modularity, allowing spaces to expand and contract based on the occupants' requirements. The design features versatility with closed and open configurations, facilitated by sliding walls that enable dynamic transitions between private and communal areas. This adaptability accommodates changing family sizes and functions, rendering the space suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger community events.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations
The selection of materials plays a pivotal role in both the structural performance and aesthetic appeal of the project. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is utilized to achieve structural integrity while providing a sustainable alternative to conventional building materials. Durable metal sheeting serves as roofing to enhance weather resistance, and aluminum frames optimize natural light infiltration. The incorporation of recycled materials further emphasizes a commitment to sustainability throughout the construction process, reflecting modern ecological practices.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The design of Manateer organizes interior spaces to prioritize functionality and comfort. Different zones are allocated for specific activities—such as sleeping, cooking, and working—promoting an efficient living environment. Designated areas for communal activities foster social interaction, reinforcing the project's commitment to community bonding. Furthermore, multipurpose furniture enhances versatility in living spaces, catering to a range of activities and needs. The integration of sustainable features, including a rainwater harvesting system, promotes self-sufficiency and reinforces its eco-friendly intent while addressing practical concerns in everyday living.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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
Advance registration deadline 18 February 2026

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