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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Author:
Daria Ershova
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Hub
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the residence incorporates communal spaces and private retreats to create a harmonious living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the facade enhances fire resistance and aesthetics.
02
The central atrium is designed to maximize daylight and natural ventilation throughout the home.
03
Terraces are integrated at multiple levels, promoting outdoor living and community interaction.
04
A guest house connects to the main residence via landscaped pathways, fostering social connectivity.
05
Workshop spaces are included for communal horticultural activities, supporting sustainable practices.

The architecture of the "House in House" project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of living spaces with the surrounding environment. This residential design emphasizes a balance between natural elements and functional spaces. Designed to facilitate both communal interactions and personal retreats, the project reflects a comprehensive understanding of contemporary residential needs.

The core function of the project is to provide a versatile living environment that accommodates both privacy and community engagement. This duality is achieved through a well-considered layout that features interconnected spaces, fostering interaction among residents while maintaining individual comfort in private quarters. The incorporation of both indoor and outdoor areas enhances the residents' experience, allowing for a seamless transition between nature and shelter.

The architectural design presents several notable features. A central atrium serves as the heart of the home, providing natural light and ventilation throughout the living areas. Surrounding this atrium, private spaces are organized to ensure tranquility while allowing visual connectivity to the exterior. The roof design is particularly distinctive, characterized by its asymmetrical slope that effectively directs rainwater and maximizes interior daylight.

An important aspect is the integration of terraces that encourage outdoor living. These spaces are strategically placed to promote relaxation and socialization, reinforcing the project's communal ethos. In addition, the use of natural materials such as wood and stone creates a tactile quality that aligns with environmental sensibilities, supporting sustainable living practices.

One unique aspect of the design is the connection between the main house and an auxiliary guest house. This design approach facilitates group activities and shared experiences while offering flexibility for private stays. The inclusion of pathways and bridges further enhances the experience of movement throughout the site, emphasizing the relationship between different areas of the project and inviting exploration.

The project also features gardens and workshops, specifically oriented towards communal horticultural activities, which highlight the integration of lifestyle and nature. These spaces not only serve practical functions but also support the residents' engagement with their surroundings.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. By reviewing these elements, one can gain a deeper understanding of the innovative architectural ideas that define the "House in House."

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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