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Flexible Living Spaces with Central Courtyard for Evolving Families

Authors:
Jacob Kackley, Mark Millhollon
Flexible Living Spaces with Central Courtyard for Evolving Families
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A central courtyard facilitates future growth while offering flexible living spaces designed to adapt to the changing needs of families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible layout allows for modular expansion based on occupant needs.
02
Central courtyard enhances lighting and ventilation while encouraging outdoor interaction.
03
Design categorizes spaces for different life stages of occupants.
04
Distinct separation between public and private areas supports varied living dynamics.
05
Innovative approach to small footprint living promotes sustainable lifestyle choices.

The Program House takes a unique approach to residential design, emphasizing flexibility and the needs of its occupants. Set within a modern urban context, the house offers an innovative solution to the challenges of single-family living. This design concept reimagines traditional layouts by allowing each functional space to act as its own element, creating a more dynamic and effective living environment within a limited area.

Spatial Organization

A key feature of the Program House is the distinction between public and private spaces. This thoughtful arrangement addresses the need for both social interaction and personal privacy. Common areas encourage gatherings and connections among residents, while private zones provide the necessary escape for relaxation and solitude. By clearly defining these two aspects, the design enhances the overall experience of daily living.

Central Courtyard

The central courtyard is an important part of the layout, providing a private outdoor space that connects various elements of the house. This feature not only adds to the visual appeal but also allows for future expansion. The courtyard creates opportunities for the house to grow as the occupants’ circumstances change, making it a flexible aspect of the design. It encourages movement and interaction, both within the home and outside in nature.

User-Centric Design

The Program House is designed to cater to different life stages. It recognizes three key demographic groups: ages 25-35, representing new home buyers; ages 35-55, focused on family growth; and ages 55-75+, for those requiring adapted living solutions. By addressing these different phases of life, the home adapts to the evolving needs of its residents. The thoughtful planning ensures that each stage of life can be supported within the same space.

The design of the Program House allows for growth and change. It offers a practical solution to the shifting dynamics of family life, making it a relevant and useful choice for modern living. The layout encourages both connection and independence, capturing the essence of contemporary housing needs while remaining adaptable over time. This combination promotes a lifestyle that can evolve with its inhabitants, providing a consistent home base while accommodating future changes.

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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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