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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Maria Lousinha
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living
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Defined by charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and community living within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce carbon footprint while offering structural strength.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes internal space while fostering natural light flow.
04
Integrated green spaces encourage community interaction and promote biodiversity.
05
Multi-functional areas within the complex support versatile living and social engagement.

### Project Overview
Located adjacent to Wandsworth Park, the residential complex is designed to reflect contemporary living while promoting adaptability. The project aims to redefine apartment living by integrating modern architectural principles with an emphasis on functionality and community engagement. Through an intentional arrangement of buildings and thoughtful consideration of space and materiality, the design harmonizes with the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Integration
The layout features a systematic grid arrangement, facilitating access to green spaces that enhance the urban landscape and foster a sense of community. The positioning of buildings optimally frames views of Wandsworth Park, allowing residents to connect with the natural environment. The design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, evident in the use of larger windows and balconies that extend the living spaces outdoors. Ground-level community areas and service facilities enhance accessibility, while underground parking mitigates traffic congestion, promoting a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Diversity
A deliberate mix of materials enhances both the functionality and visual appeal of the complex. Concrete is employed for structural integrity, while expansive glass facades contribute to transparency and spaciousness. Brick accents add texture and grounding to the design. Wood elements in interior spaces introduce warmth, catering to comfort within the residences. This varied material palette not only enriches the aesthetic experience but also aligns with contemporary expectations for durability and environmental sustainability, reflecting a commitment to both design innovation and livability.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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