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Cross-Laminated Timber Shelter with Adjustable Elevation for Remote Living

Authors:
Christophe Caranchini, Christophe Caranchini
Cross-Laminated Timber Shelter with Adjustable Elevation for Remote Living
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Utilizing cross-laminated timber and a unique octagonal form, this mobile shelter incorporates adjustable elevation and a rainwater collection system, offering a sustainable solution for outdoor living in remote environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and efficient insulation.
02
Features a unique octagonal shape for enhanced spatial dynamics and natural light penetration.
03
Incorporates adjustable elevation to adapt to uneven terrain and facilitate water drainage.
04
Includes a rainwater collection system with filtration for sustainable water use.
05
Offers a multifunctional interior layout with foldable furniture for optimized space utilization.

### Project Overview

The Shelter Capsule is designed as a compact, sustainable living space tailored for remote wilderness locations, particularly in areas like the mountainous regions of Iceland. Its primary objective is to provide a resilient shelter option for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, facilitating a secure base for exploration in nature. The design emphasizes functionality and eco-friendliness while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing form that integrates well with the surrounding environment.

### Architectural Form and Structure

The Shelter Capsule features an octagonal shape that optimizes interior space while minimizing external surface area, enhancing thermal efficiency and reducing exposure to harsh weather. The structure is elevated on adjustable legs, allowing it to adapt to uneven terrain and facilitate effective water drainage. Internally, the layout includes sleeping bunk beds with integrated storage, a multifunctional central area for dining and social activities, and strategically placed windows and skylights that create a connection to the natural landscape.

### Materials and Sustainability Features

Utilizing sustainable materials is central to the Shelter Capsule's design. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels provide structural stability while ensuring a lightweight build. An 8 cm thick layer of Rockwool insulation enhances thermal performance and acoustic comfort. The exterior is clad in coated aluminum panels, adding durability and a modern aesthetic, while marine-grade plywood is used for interior surfaces for practical and lightweight functionality.

The structure incorporates solar panels for energy generation, ensuring a self-sufficient power source for essential systems, such as lighting and charging stations. A rainwater collection system, accompanied by a filtration unit, supports sustainable water use, crucial for remote settings. Notable user-centric features include an accessibility ramp, adjustable tilting feet for varying topography, and a designated cleaning zone for gear maintenance. The striking red color of the Shelter Capsule enhances visibility while contributing to its modern design. Additionally, the modularity of the unit allows for connection with other capsules, fostering communal living for larger groups.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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