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Passive House with Bio Block Masonry and Efficient Thermal Performance

Passive House with Bio Block Masonry and Efficient Thermal Performance
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Crafted with bio block masonry and equipped with a central multifunctional core, this passive house exemplifies efficient living by integrating sustainable materials and advanced thermal performance for urban or vacation settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from bio block masonry, the design minimizes carbon footprint while enhancing thermal mass.
02
The central multifunctional core optimizes space, combining kitchen and bathroom facilities for efficient living.
03
Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure ample natural light and cross-ventilation throughout the interior.
04
Insulated membrane-lined gutters are integrated into the design to promote effective water management.
05
Foldable furniture elements provide adaptability, maximizing utility in the compact living space.

## Project Overview

Located in urban backyards and adaptable to varied vacation contexts such as mountainous or desert environments, the Core Prototype House combines minimalist design with functionality and environmental responsiveness. This passive house prototype aims to embody sustainable living principles while offering flexibility for diverse geographical applications.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial strategy revolves around a central core, defined by two intersecting rectangles at an obtuse angle, which segments the interior into four functional areas: sleeping, working, cooking, and leisure. The design facilitates a flow of spaces, enhancing user experience and optimizing spatial utility. With a footprint measuring 25 square meters (5m x 5m), the organization promotes efficient use of space. The central core integrates essential utilities including kitchen and restroom facilities, while strategically placed windows on the southern and northern elevations ensure optimal natural light penetration and cross-ventilation. The hipped roof design further enhances airflow, contributing to a comfortable living environment.

### Material Selection

Materials have been meticulously chosen for their thermal efficiency, durability, and ecological impact. Key elements include Kingspan Quadcore LEC Insulated Wall Panels for structural integrity and insulation, Bio Block Masonry Units known for their low carbon footprint, and plywood substrates that maintain structural stability while contributing to a minimalist aesthetic. The use of double-glazed, high-performance windows enhances energy conservation, and flexible PVC water pipes support the plumbing system. Additionally, insulated membrane-lined gutters facilitate effective drainage, minimizing potential water-related issues.

### Sustainable Features

This design incorporates several passive energy strategies that leverage natural resources for heating and cooling. The house features a rainwater collection system and strategic shading to reduce heat gain in warmer months. Thoughtfully designed foldable furniture optimizes the limited space, allowing for multifunctional usage. The architectural focus on air-tightness and continuous thermal protection minimizes thermal bridging, while the structure’s engineering maximizes passive heating and cooling effects based on ambient weather conditions, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The combination of these elements exemplifies a commitment to sustainable living and resource management.

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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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