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Rammed Earth Structures Featuring Natural Bamboo Integration for Climate-Responsive Living

Rammed Earth Structures Featuring Natural Bamboo Integration for Climate-Responsive Living
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Rammed earth walls and locally sourced bamboo create a resilient shelter that adapts seamlessly to extreme climates while promoting sustainable living practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance thermal mass, providing natural temperature regulation.
02
Locally harvested bamboo adds structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes snow shedding and wind resistance in polar conditions.
04
Natural ventilation systems are integrated to reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
Water collection features funnel rainwater for sustainable usage in arid climates.

### Overview

Located in diverse climatic regions, the project "Extreme Situations" introduces a thoughtful design approach tailored to the challenges presented by tropical, desert, and polar environments. The intent is to create adaptable and sustainable living spaces that respond effectively to their respective climates. With an emphasis on resource conservation, the design utilizes locally sourced materials and innovative construction techniques, aiming to integrate ecological concerns into the fabric of everyday life.

### Spatial Strategy

The design framework comprises three distinct modules, each specifically crafted for its climate context. The Tropical Module employs lightweight materials such as wood and bamboo, featuring designs that promote airflow and solar shading through open layouts and overhanging roofs. In contrast, the Desert Module utilizes durable materials, including rammed earth and stone, with features like thick walls and small openings to control temperature—fostering intimate enclosed courtyards for social interaction. The Polar Module focuses on compact living spaces optimized for heat retention, utilizing high-insulation materials like foam panels. Domed structures minimize snow accumulation while maximizing passive solar gain through extensive glazing.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A wide array of materials is strategically selected for their environmental benefits and suitability for each climate. This includes renewable resources such as bamboo and wood, as well as high thermal mass materials like rammed earth and stone. Recycled plastics and insulating foam panels enhance energy efficiency, while clay and glass contribute to thermal regulation and natural lighting. The project prioritizes renewable energy solutions and efficient water management systems, ensuring each module operates with minimal ecological impact and is prepared for disaster resilience.

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The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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