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Elevated Octagonal Shelter Crafted from Galvanized Steel and Engineered Wood Panels

Elevated Octagonal Shelter Crafted from Galvanized Steel and Engineered Wood Panels
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An elevated octagonal shelter utilizes galvanized steel and engineered wood panels to create a resilient and sustainable living space tailored for community use in flood-prone Caribbean regions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances flood resilience in coastal environments.
02
Circular octagonal shape optimizes wind resistance while maximizing interior space.
03
Utilizes locally sourced galvanized steel and engineered wood for sustainable construction.
04
Incorporates a communal deck to promote social interaction among residents.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting system reduces reliance on external water sources.

### Project Overview
RISE is an off-grid modular dwelling concept designed for individuals and communities in the vulnerable valleys and rural areas of the Caribbean. It aims to address the increasing demand for sustainable, climate-resilient living spaces in response to the threats posed by flooding, hurricanes, and climate change.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout features a modular design characterized by a round octagonal form, optimizing structural integrity and spatial efficiency. Key areas, including the living workspace, bathroom, sleeping quarters, kitchen, and laundry facilities, are arranged in radial symmetry. This configuration not only maximizes the use of available space but also facilitates natural airflow through open vistas, enhancing occupant comfort.

### Material Selection
RISE employs a carefully chosen array of materials that emphasize sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The primary structural components consist of painted galvanized steel beams and concrete footings, while secondary elements include engineered moulded wood panels. Interior finishes feature painted wood panels and hardy flooring, and the exterior is composed of insulated wall panels and aluminum windows and doors. Additionally, the integration of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems supports energy efficiency and water management, addressing local environmental challenges.

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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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