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Folding Panel Systems in Sustainable Plywood Housing with Natural Ventilation

Folding Panel Systems in Sustainable Plywood Housing with Natural Ventilation
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Utilizing a unique folding panel system and sustainable plywood, this Kyoto residence integrates natural ventilation and communal spaces to enhance modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a folding panel system for adaptable roof and wall configurations.
02
Incorporates natural vegetation within living spaces to enhance indoor air quality.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Includes shared communal areas to foster neighborhood interaction.
05
Designed for optimized microclimate management through strategic airflow.

## Project Overview

"Borrow the Breeze" is a residential design initiative located in Kyoto, Japan, that harmonizes modern architectural practices with the natural environment. The project is developed with an intent to enhance the quality of living while respecting the historical and cultural context of the area. By fostering a connection between residents and their surroundings, the design aims to create a supportive community atmosphere.

## Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout employs a distinctive vertical organization, characterized by a combination of open and enclosed spaces that promote a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor environments. This arrangement emphasizes natural air circulation and cross-ventilation, facilitating improved comfort and health for residents. The two-level design enhances functionality while encouraging interaction and engagement among community members.

## Material Utilization

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in establishing the project’s identity, focusing on sustainability and aesthetic quality. Concrete is implemented for structural stability, providing longevity and resilience, while Kingspan UnQuad polycarbonate panels are used for moveable wall systems that allow for natural light and privacy. Plywood is integrated to bring warmth and texture to interior spaces, and the use of natural vegetation supports the project’s ecological goals. These material selections contribute to overall thermal comfort and environmental performance, reinforcing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

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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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20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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