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Polycarbonate Skin and Foundation Screws in Adaptable Community Housing

Author:
Enzo De Moustier
Polycarbonate Skin and Foundation Screws in Adaptable Community Housing
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The use of a polycarbonate skin and foundation screws creates a versatile living structure that adapts to environmental conditions while integrating agricultural functions for enhanced community self-sufficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Use of foundation screws to minimize ecological disruption.
02
Integration of agricultural spaces for community food production.
03
Hollow bricks provide passive insulation and thermal mass.
04
Natural ventilation achieved through large openings in the facade.
05
Organic photovoltaic film enhances energy generation and efficiency.

The design reflects a modern approach to residential living that prioritizes adaptability and ecological awareness. Located in a variable environment, it accommodates both individual and communal needs. The concept centers on a passive volume enclosed by a translucent skin, which creates a strong connection between indoor and outdoor areas.

Design Concept

A polycarbonate layer serves as the main skin of the structure, supported by an aluminum frame. This combination offers strength while being lightweight. Instead of using concrete foundations, the design opts for foundation screws. This method lessens the impact on the underground environment, aligning with sustainable building practices. The construction method also allows for easier modifications in the future.



Interior Configuration

Inside, the layout features a square design that allows for modular configurations. This approach promotes the possibility of creating additional collective housing units. The incorporation of greenhouse spaces within the living area supports the community’s ability to produce food, enhancing self-sufficiency. By integrating agriculture into residential life, the design fosters a sense of community and connection to nature.



Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a significant aspect of the design. The polycarbonate skin allows sunlight to enter, creating a greenhouse effect that aids in warming the interior naturally. The use of materials with high thermal inertia, like the slab and walls, helps retain heat during cold periods. This design choice ensures comfort while minimizing energy use.



Sustainable Features

Several sustainable elements are integrated into the overall design. Rainwater collection systems are included to reuse water for various household needs. An organic photovoltaic film adds to the structure's energy options by generating low-carbon energy. Large openings in the façades and roof allow fresh air to flow in, promoting healthy indoor conditions.



A mass stove provides warmth by radiating heat throughout the living spaces. It also conducts warmth into the walls, emphasizing energy-efficient solutions. The careful placement of windows, just one brick wide, maximizes natural light, making the interiors bright and inviting while maintaining a simple and functional aesthetic.

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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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