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Exposed Stone and Timber Cladding in a Harmonious Residential Design Embracing Natural Landscapes

Exposed Stone and Timber Cladding in a Harmonious Residential Design Embracing Natural Landscapes
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Employing locally-sourced stone and warm timber cladding, the design integrates seamlessly with the Norwegian landscape while providing a tranquil residential space oriented around panoramic views and natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Local stone is integrated into both the exterior and interior, establishing a direct connection with the environment.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
03
Large panoramic windows are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for efficient structural integrity and a distinctive silhouette.
05
Sustainable practices are prioritized through the selection of eco-friendly materials and construction methods.

### General Overview
Located on a rocky mountain slope in Norway, the L-House harmonizes with the surrounding landscape of mountains, ocean, and light. The design prioritizes functionality while maintaining an aesthetic coherence with its environment, aiming to create a living space that fosters engagement with the natural world through its architecture.

### Spatial Organization
The layout of the L-House is characterized by distinct yet interconnected areas, including a living room, kitchen, dining area, bedrooms, and bathrooms. The arrangement is purposefully designed to optimize natural light and views.

- **Living Room**: Situated at the house's terminus, the living room features expansive windows that frame the stunning landscape and incorporate local rock formations, facilitating a connection between the interior and exterior spaces.

- **Kitchen and Dining Area**: The kitchen is directly adjacent to the living room, promoting social interaction while also emphasizing openness. A generously sized dining area benefits from natural light via well-positioned windows, enhancing the shared experience.

- **Bedrooms and Bathrooms**: Designed for privacy, the bedrooms and bathrooms are positioned to capture scenic views and ample daylight, serving as serene retreats following outdoor activities. The central circulation path enhances accessibility and intuitiveness within the home.

### Materiality
The architectural language of the L-House is defined by a careful selection of natural materials that reflect the surrounding environment:

- **Local Stone**: Used prominently in both the interior and exterior, local stone contributes to the textural quality of the building, complementing the rugged landscape.

- **Timber**: Sustainably sourced timber is utilized for wall cladding and various furniture elements, infusing warmth into the spaces while contrasting with the colder stone finishes.

- **Glass**: Large glass windows are integral to the design, allowing for abundant natural light and framing panoramic views that establish a strong visual connection with the outdoor environment.

- **Concrete**: Structural elements incorporate concrete for stability, allowing for sculptural forms that respond to the varied elevations of the site.

These material choices underscore the commitment to sustainability and enhance the visual and tactile aspects of the building, emphasizing the raw beauty of the Norwegian landscape.

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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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.

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

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