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Elevated Living Pod with Engineered Wood and Vertical Greenery

Authors:
Gia Hana Lotzer, Ann-christin Timke, Chloe Hönisch Gravel
Elevated Living Pod with Engineered Wood and Vertical Greenery
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An elevated structure clad in engineered wood and complemented by a vertical garden redefines compact living, creating a self-sufficient pod that integrates seamlessly into its hillside environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on stilts to minimize ground disruption and enhance natural views.
02
Incorporates a living vertical garden for improved air quality and insulation.
03
Utilizes engineered wood sourced from sustainably managed forests.
04
Features a compact, multifunctional interior layout for efficient use of space.
05
Equipped with a greywater recycling system for water conservation.

The project "Nature Cube" embodies a fundamental shift in architectural design, prioritizing both sustainability and minimalism in a compact living space. Designed for a hillside location, the "Nature Cube" serves as a self-sufficient sleeping pod that merges seamlessly with its natural surroundings. This project emphasizes a smaller footprint while enhancing user experience and preserving ecological balance.

The architectural design features a cube-like form that utilizes engineered wood as the primary construction material. This choice not only provides aesthetic benefits but also contributes to lower carbon emissions compared to traditional materials like concrete and steel. Elevated on stilts, the structure minimizes ground disruption, allowing existing vegetation to thrive. Generous glazing across the façade permits natural light to penetrate deeper into the space, fostering a connection between occupants and the environment.

Compact Design with Functional Spaces

The "Nature Cube" maximizes efficiency through an open floor plan that creates multipurpose areas without sacrificing comfort. The central living space is designed for versatility, featuring high ceilings that promote natural ventilation. A strategically placed service area accommodates essential facilities while maintaining privacy, ensuring the living experience remains functional yet intimate.

Unique to this project is the integration of a vertical garden as part of the exterior cladding. This living facade not only enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal but also serves critical functions such as insulation, shade, and improved air quality. This design approach reflects a conscious effort to foster biodiversity, making the structure a part of the local ecosystem.

Sustainable Systems Implementation

With a keen focus on sustainability, the "Nature Cube" incorporates advanced water and energy systems. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling address water conservation needs, promoting responsible resource use. Additionally, the inclusion of photovoltaic panels on the roof supports energy self-sufficiency by providing electricity for lighting and heating. This holistic approach to architectural design positions the "Nature Cube" as an exemplary model of eco-friendly living.

Those interested in exploring the "Nature Cube" project further should review the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs available for deeper insights into its innovative features and design strategies. This project not only highlights contemporary architectural practices but also sets a benchmark for future developments in similar contexts.

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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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