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Mineral Wool Insulated Community Spaces with Flexible Modularity

Author:
Trif Ilie-sorin
Mineral Wool Insulated Community Spaces with Flexible Modularity
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Constructed with mineral wool insulation and designed for flexible use, the building integrates distinct areas for community engagement, reading, and workshops, creating a multifunctional space that fosters interaction while emphasizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rook Area designed as a communal space with central fireplace for social interaction.
02
King Area features comfortable seating to promote relaxation and informal gatherings.
03
Queen Area includes bookshelves and a coffee machine to enhance reading experiences.
04
Knight Area is adaptable with modular furniture for various events and workshops.
05
Sustainable practices include solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system for reuse.

The project located at Kurgi Farm features a well-organized spatial layout inspired by the arrangement of a chessboard. Positioned in a tranquil environment, the design offers a blend of areas for community gathering and personal retreat. A key aim is to encourage flow between different zones, allowing movement throughout the spaces while keeping a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Spatial Organization

Inside the building, several distinct areas are defined, each serving specific purposes. The Rook Area rises to the top, functioning as a gathering space with a central fireplace. This area promotes social interactions and provides expansive views. Below, the King Area serves as a lounge space equipped with comfortable seating, encouraging relaxation and informal meetings.

Functionality and Adaptability

Adjacent to the King Area is the Queen Area, focused on reading and reflection. It includes shelves filled with books and a coffee machine to enhance the leisure experience. The Knight Area is notably versatile, designed for workshops and exhibitions. With modular furniture, it can be rearranged for different activities. This adaptability is crucial for meeting various programming needs throughout the building's use.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is clearly a priority in the design. Solar panels are implemented to provide energy for the lighting system, while rainwater is collected and reused. These features highlight a commitment to environmental responsibility and address the growing demand for sustainable architecture.

Materiality

The design employs a specific selection of materials, including square pipes, wainscot paneling, oriented strand board, and mineral wool with a thickness of 10 cm. These materials contribute to the structure’s strength and enhance its visual appeal, offering a variety of textures while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

The arrangement of these functional spaces creates an inviting atmosphere, encouraging interaction and engagement among users, while thoughtfully considering individual needs within its design.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
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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