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Elevated Structure Featuring Composite Gills and Solar Tiles for Sustainable Living

Elevated Structure Featuring Composite Gills and Solar Tiles for Sustainable Living
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An elevated dwelling designed with a mushroom-inspired form incorporates composite gills and solar tiles, effectively merging ecological sensitivity with practical living solutions in a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances weather resilience and protection from wildlife.
02
Composite gills provide both ventilation and insulation in a compact space.
03
Solar tiles integrated into the roof maximize energy efficiency.
04
Retractable ladder access preserves the interior footprint for versatile use.
05
Panoramic windows blur the line between indoor and outdoor environments.

### Architectural Analysis Report on "Mushroom" Tiny House Project

#### Overview
Located in a mountainous region, the "Mushroom" tiny house project exemplifies a design that draws inspiration from the natural form of a mushroom. The intent of this design is to create a home that harmoniously interacts with its rugged surroundings while prioritizing both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. The architecture reflects contemporary principles focused on user experience and environmental integration.

#### Structural and Material Considerations
The design features an exaggerated mushroom-shaped cap supported by a robust stem, elevating the structure to provide protection from environmental elements and enhance accessibility. The exterior employs durable materials, including weather-resistant steel for the stem, finished in a rust color to blend with the natural environment, and solar roof tiles that promote energy efficiency. Lightweight composite materials are used for the gills, allowing for breathability and insulation while mimicking the natural textures of a mushroom.

Internally, the inclusion of wooden elements adds warmth and comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere. Insulation materials play a crucial role in maintaining temperature control for energy conservation, while hydroinsulation decking addresses moisture protection essential for sustainability in outdoor settings.

#### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The design incorporates a two-level layout that enhances usability within a compact footprint. The upper floor serves as a multifunctional observatory and living space, featuring a skylight that maximizes natural light and facilitates an open feeling. Lounge seating that converts to beds increases versatility within this area. The lower floor accommodates essential amenities, including a compact bathroom integrated within the stem, which helps maintain an uncluttered living environment.

Access to the upper level is provided by a retractable ladder, ensuring the spatial integrity is preserved while promoting a sense of verticality. Large panoramic windows are strategically placed to dissolve the barriers between interior and exterior spaces, offering expansive views of the rugged landscape and reinforcing the connection to the natural setting.

Integrating sustainability features such as a rainwater collection system and battery storage reinforces the commitment to eco-friendly practices, critical for living in remote areas. The overall design emphasizes resilience against environmental factors while maximizing functional utility in a limited space, underscoring the potential of organic-inspired architecture.

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Enter an open architecture
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20,000 USD Prize
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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
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

Open architecture competitions

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 26 February 2026

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