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Natural Wood and Concrete Solutions for Flexible Living in Urban Settings

Author:
Lorena Gámez Hernández
Natural Wood and Concrete Solutions for Flexible Living in Urban Settings
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With a focus on modularity and the use of natural wood and concrete, this housing solution offers adaptable living spaces that integrate a co-work area to meet the needs of young professionals seeking balance in urban life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy reconfiguration based on sunlight and views.
02
Co-work area is integrated as a central space for professional development.
03
Natural wood walls connect interiors to the surrounding environment.
04
Strategic window placement enhances natural light and outdoor connectivity.
05
Close proximity to urban amenities while ensuring a tranquil setting.

The ORIENTATION HOUSE project addresses the need for affordable housing in Monterrey, Nuevo León, where many young adults struggle to become homeowners. Located in the district of El Barrial, Santiago, the design offers a modern and modular approach that prioritizes adaptability and practicality. It creates a living space that meets both residential and work needs while balancing the peace of nature with access to city life.

Modular Design

The architecture uses a modular design that enhances flexibility and customization. Residents can rearrange the internal spaces based on their preferences and the angle of sunlight. This design approach allows homes to maximize natural light and air circulation, fostering a comfortable and sustainable living environment.

Co-Work Integration

A key feature of ORIENTATION HOUSE is the co-work area, which is an important part of the layout. This office space allows residents to focus on their professional goals, reflecting how modern life often blends home and work. This thoughtful inclusion addresses the needs of individuals seeking a balance between personal and professional pursuits in their daily lives.

Environmental Context

The location provides a peaceful natural environment while remaining close to urban opportunities. El Barrial offers residents a chance to enjoy quiet surroundings, making it easier to relax or concentrate on work. The position of ORIENTATION HOUSE bridges the calm of rural life with the conveniences of a city, catering to those looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Materiality

The project features carefully chosen materials that support both function and aesthetic appeal. Concrete forms the main structure to ensure durability and stability. Natural wood panels are used for warmth, connecting the indoor spaces to the outside world. Drywall finishes serve to create clean, modern interiors, ensuring spaces remain user-friendly and visually pleasing.

Large windows enhance the design by bringing in light and framing views of the landscape, contributing to a feeling of openness between the interior and exterior. This thoughtful attention to detail allows the living spaces to feel more expansive and connected to the natural beauty surrounding them.

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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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