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Hollow Brick and Recycled Concrete Structure Integrating Community Engagement in a Scenic Rural Setting

Author:
Wei Ting Yu
Hollow Brick and Recycled Concrete Structure Integrating Community Engagement in a Scenic Rural Setting
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Constructed with hollow brick and recycled concrete, the design merges sustainable materials with a focus on community engagement, creating a multifunctional space dedicated to promoting local olive oil tourism.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a focus on community engagement through shared kitchen and dining spaces.
02
Incorporates local materials such as hollow brick and recycled concrete for sustainability.
03
Features a meditation terrace that blends natural elements with architectural design.
04
Strategically uses solar panels on the southern roof slope to enhance energy efficiency.
05
Showroom area dedicated to promoting local olive oil and tourism initiatives.

### Overview
Located in the regions of Leiria and Batalha, Portugal, this architectural design addresses the intersection of urban and rural environments while considering contemporary challenges such as an aging population and climate change. The intent is to create a functional space that fosters community engagement and enhances environmental resilience, with a particular emphasis on the local olive oil industry.

### Material and Structural Strategy
The design incorporates materials that are both sustainable and reflective of the local culture. Key elements include hollow brick for enhanced thermal insulation, stainless steel for structural durability, locally sourced timber for aesthetic warmth, and recycled concrete for environmentally responsible construction practices. Additionally, wall paint derived from waste materials and solar panels on the southern roof slope contribute to energy efficiency. This thoughtful selection of materials bridges historical architectural practices and modern innovations.

### Spatial Organization and Community Focus
The spatial configuration is strategically crafted to promote communal interaction while ensuring user privacy. Key functional areas include an accessible forecourt for visitor welcome, a porch that fosters exterior engagement, a showroom dedicated to local olive oil education, and a shared kitchen and dining area that strengthens community bonds. The design also features a mixed-use terrace for relaxation and social interaction, integrating natural elements with built spaces. This versatility supports a range of activities, from social gatherings to educational initiatives surrounding local agriculture, ultimately enhancing community resilience and social cohesion.

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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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