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Hempcrete Walls and Reed Roofing Create a Community Haven in the Forest

Authors:
Anastazija Berkov, Milica Bursać, Nina Vučković, Teodora Fojkar
Hempcrete Walls and Reed Roofing Create a Community Haven in the Forest
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Constructed with hempcrete walls and a thatched reed roof, the building integrates sustainable materials to create an adaptable space for yoga and community engagement in a tranquil forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced reed for roofing, enhancing environmental integration.
02
Walls feature hempcrete for superior thermal insulation and sustainability.
03
Flexible interior partitions allow for adaptable use of space for various activities.
04
Design incorporates extensive glass openings to maximize natural light.
05
The building is strategically oriented for optimal views of the surrounding forest.

## Overview

Zenit House is located in a forested area of Latvia, near the Baltic Sea, where it aims to foster a strong relationship with its natural surroundings. The building's design integrates traditional Latvian architectural elements with modern aesthetics, focusing on providing spaces conducive to well-being, particularly for yoga practices and community gatherings.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The spatial layout is intentionally designed to promote versatility and connectivity among users. The yoga space, centrally located and enclosed by expansive glass walls, enhances the experience of tranquility through visual engagement with the outdoors. Adjacent to this area is a community room that can be easily reconfigured for various activities, exemplifying the building's multifunctionality. Service areas are strategically positioned to reduce interruptions during sessions, supporting the primary use of the facility.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Zenit House employs predominantly natural and locally sourced materials, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. The roof is constructed of reed, which serves as an effective insulator and reflects traditional building practices. Glulam timber supports the structure through wooden rafters and pillars, marrying durability with an inviting aesthetic. Hempcrete is utilized in wall construction, providing superior thermal insulation while aligning with environmentally responsible construction methodologies. This careful material selection not only enhances the building's performance but also minimizes its environmental impact.

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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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