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Recycled Plastic Walls and Terracotta Units in a Sustainable Modular Home

Author:
Jonathan Avila
Recycled Plastic Walls and Terracotta Units in a Sustainable Modular Home
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Constructed with recycled plastic walls and terracotta ventilated units, this sustainable modular home emphasizes efficient resource utilization while providing a comfortable living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled plastic structural walls reduce cement usage and carbon emissions.
02
Increased roof height enhances solar energy collection and rainwater harvesting.
03
Terracotta ventilated units improve thermal performance and add aesthetic value.
04
Interlocking brick system simplifies assembly and increases structural stability.
05
Functional zoning separates living and utility areas for enhanced efficiency.

The MICRO HOME project, located in Atlanta, GA, merges traditional knowledge with modern building techniques to create a sustainable living space. The design focuses on reducing carbon footprints while offering flexibility for different environments. By utilizing modular concepts, the home represents a practical approach to contemporary housing needs.

Design Concept
The overall design aims to produce a functional living area that is both adaptable and sustainable. It measures 3 meters by 8.33 meters and stands 7.90 meters tall. This height allows for better solar energy collection, as well as improved rainwater harvesting capabilities. The increased roof profile contributes to the building's efficiency, ensuring it can function independently from traditional utility services.

Materiality
The structure employs an interlocking system made from recycled plastic structural wall panels. This choice helps minimize the use of cement, which usually contributes to carbon emissions. By reducing reliance on traditional materials, the design promotes a more sustainable construction approach. Additionally, terracotta ventilated masonry units are used. These not only help regulate temperature but also enhance the home’s appearance, blending practicality with an eye for design.

Functional Layout
Inside, the layout clearly separates living areas from utility spaces. This thoughtful organization maximizes efficiency and creates a comfortable atmosphere for residents. The integration of solar panels, rainwater collection systems, and wind mechanical louvers reflects careful planning and a commitment to resource management. Overall, these elements ensure the home can meet modern sustainability standards while catering to daily living requirements.

Visually Integrated Design
Illustrations of the MICRO HOME provide insight into how each architectural element comes together. Floor plans and sectional views highlight the careful integration of all components. The design prioritizes interaction with nature and aesthetic coherence. The terracotta units, in particular, play a key role in cooling the facade while connecting the building visually to its environment. Each detail contributes to a cohesive space that emphasizes comfort and sustainability, serving as a modern example of thoughtful design in residential architecture.

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

`
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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