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Modular Living with Reinforced Concrete and Sustainable Energy Solutions

Authors:
Walter Hughes, Maria Ines Morato
Modular Living with Reinforced Concrete and Sustainable Energy Solutions
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With a focus on reinforced concrete and an innovative rainwater harvesting system, this modular home design prioritizes sustainability and flexibility, catering to contemporary residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy expansion and customization based on homeowner needs.
02
Integrated rainwater harvesting system enhances resource efficiency.
03
Solar energy system supports reduced energy costs and promotes sustainability.
04
Natural ventilation strategy improves indoor air quality and comfort.
05
Adaptable stacking options cater to various urban contexts and site conditions.

The modular home concept emphasizes adaptability and personalization, addressing the diverse needs of modern living. Situated in an urban environment, it blends functionality with the idea of community. The design encompasses a dynamic approach to home life, encouraging residents to shape their spaces according to individual preferences while also fostering connections among neighbors.

Modular Structure

The design unfolds in three structured phases. It begins with a reinforced concrete slab that acts as the solid foundation. This base includes structural columns that will support the upper module, ensuring the stability of the whole structure. After establishing the groundwork, the lower-level module is placed, creating an initial living space ripe for customization. Finally, the addition of the upper-level module opens up possibilities for future growth and expansion.

Sustainable Systems

Sustainability is a key focus throughout the design. A rainwater harvesting system is integrated, allowing water to be collected from the roof and channeled through gutters into storage barrels. This practice not only enhances efficiency but encourages resource conservation. Additionally, the project includes a solar energy system with photovoltaic panels that capture sunlight. These panels convert light into usable electricity, while any surplus energy can be returned to the grid.

Ventilation Strategy

Natural ventilation plays an important role in maintaining comfort and air quality inside the home. The design employs a strategy where wind is used to draw cool air into the shaded lower area of the module. This process allows warmer air to escape from the upper sections. As a result, the need for mechanical cooling is lessened, promoting energy efficiency and overall comfort for the residents.

Flexible Typologies

The modular nature of the design allows for a variety of stacking options, creating flexibility in housing arrangements. These can range from single-family units to multistory structures that can accommodate three to five stories. Such adaptability means the design can effectively cater to different urban landscapes and diverse community dynamics.

Overall, the emphasis on modularity, sustainability, and personal choice results in a living environment that meets the demands of today’s households while remaining grounded in practical architectural solutions. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces allows for both individual comfort and collective interactions, which are essential in modern life.

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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
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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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