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Reclaimed Rubble and Clay Structures Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions

Reclaimed Rubble and Clay Structures Creating Sustainable Housing Solutions
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Utilizing locally sourced rubble and clay, the design integrates recycled materials to create adaptable housing solutions that address the needs of displaced communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rubble and clay for structural integrity.
02
Incorporates glass bottles into walls to enhance natural lighting.
03
Features a community-centered layout promoting social interaction.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques to minimize energy reliance.
05
Integrates a green roof system to support local biodiversity.

### Overview

The Rubble House project is situated in an urban area impacted by conflict and natural disasters. It aims to address the pressing housing needs of displaced populations by integrating modern architectural approaches with locally sourced materials. The initiative focuses on resilience and sustainability, advocating for community rebuilding through a unique living space that fosters a sense of identity and belonging.

### Material-Driven Design

This project emphasizes the use of recycled materials, specifically rubble, clay, and adobe, which are abundant in post-conflict settings. The architectural design incorporates glass bottles within the walls to enhance natural light absorption and improve thermal insulation. Additionally, the application of Ancient Egyptian blue pigment on the exterior serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, as it reflects solar radiation and contributes to interior cooling. The overall structure features organic, fluid forms that allow for effective wind pressure dissipation and efficient water management, reflecting a careful response to the local environment.

### Sustainable Living Practices

Sustainability is a core aspect of the design, which incorporates various features to promote self-sufficiency. Passive cooling strategies are achieved through sloped roofs that facilitate ventilation. The inclusion of a rainwater harvesting system, along with solar panels and wind turbines, underscores a commitment to energy independence. Furthermore, the innovative green roof enhances insulation while supporting biodiversity and mitigating urban heat. The layout of the interior promotes multifunctionality and communal use, fostering interaction among residents and encouraging a collaborative atmosphere.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

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

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