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Natural Materials and Open Spaces in a Community-Focused Design

Author:
Boran Hrelja
Natural Materials and Open Spaces in a Community-Focused Design
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Open spaces and natural materials define a community hub situated on a brownfield site, designed to foster social engagement and environmental responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Community-focused design integrated into a brownfield site.
02
Use of cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural efficiency.
03
Charred wooden shingles for durability and weather resistance.
04
Open areas designed to encourage social interaction and activities.
05
Natural ventilation strategies to improve indoor air quality.

The design exemplifies a thoughtful integration of community, functionality, and environmental responsibility. It is situated in a context that respects the surrounding landscape while serving as a multifunctional space that encourages social interaction. The design draws inspiration from the traditional concept of shelter, aiming to create a familiar and welcoming environment for its users.

Conceptual Framework

The project embodies a clear focus on simplicity and practicality. Clean lines and an efficient layout define the space, which maximizes open areas for community engagement. This design promotes interaction among occupants and fosters a connection with nature. It invites users to participate in outdoor activities and raises awareness of their surroundings.

Sustainable Practices

The commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the design. Choosing a brownfield site for development minimizes ecological disruption and reclaims land that has already been utilized. The location near a road belt supports the use of alternative transport options like biking, which helps reduce carbon emissions. The introduction of water-efficient landscaping further emphasizes the design’s approach to resource management, ensuring that overall water consumption remains low.

Integration with Historical Context

Attention to the historical environment is a significant aspect of the design. Its elements blend naturally into the existing setting without overshadowing its character. By arranging architectural features thoughtfully, the design strikes a balance between traditional forms and modern needs. This blend enhances the structure’s visual appeal and establishes it as an important part of the community’s story.

Environmental Quality and User Experience

Indoor environmental quality is prioritized to enhance the comfort of users. Increased ventilation and the selection of low-emitting materials create a healthier indoor atmosphere. Additionally, the tactile qualities of the materials invite engagement, providing a warm and welcoming experience.

The design incorporates large openings that allow sunlight to enter. This creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, which changes throughout the day, lending a sense of liveliness to the interior.

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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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