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Photovoltaic Glass and Ironwood Structure for Sustainable Micro Living

Authors:
Alexander Andry Rusli, Hansen Sentosa
Photovoltaic Glass and Ironwood Structure for Sustainable Micro Living
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Constructed with photovoltaic glass and ironwood, this compact micro-house embraces sustainable living through adaptable design and efficient resource management, serving as a modern sanctuary away from urban centers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed to maximize natural light through large windows and skylights.
02
Incorporates an adaptable foundation for resilience in varying environmental conditions.
03
Features a rainwater collection system designed for efficient water management.
04
Utilizes photovoltaic glass to generate solar energy while enhancing daylighting.
05
Designed to foster community interaction while preserving individual privacy.

Rumah Teduh is a modern micro-house designed to meet the needs of sustainable living while addressing the challenges of contemporary urban environments. Located outside city centers, the house serves as a response to the increased demand for physical distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The design emphasizes a close relationship with the natural surroundings, providing a tranquil living environment.

Design Layout
The house features a compact layout of 20 m², creating a functional yet comfortable space. Inside, there are key areas for daily life: a kitchen, a dining/home office zone, and a lofted sleeping area. These spaces are organized to maximize usability, ensuring that all necessary activities can be carried out easily. The arrangement reflects a thoughtful approach to modern living.

Natural Light and Ventilation
A notable element of Rumah Teduh is the emphasis on natural light and ventilation. The use of large windows and skylights allows ample daylight to enter the home and promotes air circulation. This setup minimizes the reliance on artificial lighting and enhances the overall living experience. Proper ventilation contributes to improved air quality inside, making the space healthier.

Sustainability Features
The house is built on an adaptable foundation, enabling it to adjust to various environmental conditions. This feature increases its durability and resilience. Rainwater is efficiently collected through a planned drainage system, which directs water to storage tanks for later use. Additionally, the inclusion of photovoltaic glass allows the house to harness solar energy while providing natural light indoors. This combination supports a net-zero energy lifestyle.

Community Engagement
The layout encourages interaction among residents while offering private spaces for retreat. Common areas are designed to promote socialization, providing welcoming gathering spots for inhabitants. Meanwhile, the placement of private living spaces ensures that individuals can enjoy moments of solitude when needed.

The design of Rumah Teduh concludes with a gently sloped roof that not only manages rainwater but also creates intriguing patterns of shadow and light across the exterior. This feature enhances the connection between the building and its natural environment, drawing attention to the delicate harmony of form and function.

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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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