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Pneumatic Membranes and Geopolymer Structures in Sustainable Community Living

Pneumatic Membranes and Geopolymer Structures in Sustainable Community Living
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Pneumatic membranes and geopolymer concrete converge in a design that integrates community interaction with a focus on sustainability, creating a self-sufficient habitat within an abandoned mining landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geopolymer concrete is utilized for its low carbon footprint and durability.
02
Pneumatic membranes provide flexible and adaptive structural capabilities.
03
Modular residential units encourage scalability based on community needs.
04
Integrated water management systems enhance resource efficiency throughout the site.
05
Vertical gardens are designed to promote local biodiversity and ecological balance.

The project is located in a remote valley on an abandoned mining site, a choice that presents both challenges and opportunities in terms of environmental integration and resource management. The intent is to address future urban living conditions, particularly in response to projections indicating a global population of 10 billion by 2050, with a significant portion residing in urban areas. The design concept, referred to as “Habitable Infrastructure,” aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that balances human habitation with natural landscapes, promoting a community-oriented lifestyle that embraces both nature and advanced technology.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Engagement
The development's layout prioritizes communal spaces designed for social interaction and connectivity among residents. These spaces include multipurpose areas and exhibition venues that foster creativity and cultural exchanges, reflecting the importance of community living. Residential units are designed as scalable pods that incorporate gardens and green roofs to support local biodiversity. Additionally, dedicated camping sites featuring tent-like canopies provide flexible gathering spaces that enhance air circulation and natural lighting, contributing to the overall livability of the environment.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices
A diverse range of materials has been integrated into the design, emphasizing sustainability and a connection to the natural landscape. Wood serves as a primary structural element, while extensive glass facades maximize natural light and views. Steel provides structural integrity for canopy-like formations, and geopolymer concrete is utilized as a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete, minimizing environmental impact. Pneumatic membranes allow for adaptable space configurations, responding to changing environmental conditions. Furthermore, solar panels are incorporated to harness renewable energy, reinforcing the project's commitment to self-sufficiency and resource efficiency. Water management systems are strategically placed to ensure functional and aesthetic contributions to the landscape, meeting the community's needs while promoting ecological stewardship.

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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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