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Micro-Ecosystem Built with Recycled Materials and Modular Design for Sustainable Living

Micro-Ecosystem Built with Recycled Materials and Modular Design for Sustainable Living
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Utilizing modular design principles and recycled materials, the habitat fosters a micro-ecosystem while providing sustainable living solutions for refugee communities in Somalia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for flexible configurations tailored to community needs.
02
Incorporation of a micro-ecosystem enhances local biodiversity and environmental health.
03
Use of recycled materials, including engineered wood and cork, promotes sustainability.
04
Integrated passive water collection systems address water scarcity in arid conditions.
05
Natural ventilation design optimizes energy efficiency in the harsh climate.

### Project Overview
The "IN & OUT: Habitat for Livings" project is situated in Somalia, a region significantly impacted by climate change, which has led to the displacement of many individuals due to environmental crises such as droughts and floods. The initiative aims to create modular living solutions that not only meet immediate shelter needs but also enhance the ecological landscape, fostering a nurturing environment for vulnerable populations.

### Architectural Concept and Spatial Strategy
The design is rooted in principles of adaptability and ecological integration. Each modular unit is crafted to blend with the local environment while providing functional living spaces. A key focus is on resilience, employing green architecture to utilize natural resources effectively and promote biodiversity. The modular design enables configurations tailored to community needs, thus allowing for personalization and flexibility in spatial arrangement.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices
The project incorporates a diverse array of sustainable materials suited for local conditions. This includes photovoltaic panels for solar energy, recycled plastic roofing for environmental benefits, and engineered wood glulam for structural support. Innovative features such as passive water collection systems, including fog catchers and greywater recycling, are integrated to address water sustainability in arid climates. The architecture maximizes natural ventilation and thermal mass to regulate temperatures, thereby reducing energy consumption and enhancing living conditions. Surrounding green spaces are intentionally designed to nourish biodiversity while fostering community interaction, further emphasizing the project's sustainability commitment.

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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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