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Recycled Rubber-Powered Structure with Interlocking Modular Units for Urban Living

Recycled Rubber-Powered Structure with Interlocking Modular Units for Urban Living
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Utilizing recycled rubber aggregates and modular interlocking units, the design integrates sustainable materials to create flexible urban housing solutions that promote community engagement and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a unique blend of recycled rubber aggregates within the concrete mix for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates large circular openings to optimize natural light and airflow in each modular unit.
03
Features an adaptable modular system allowing for reconfiguration based on changing community needs.
04
Integrates agricultural units promoting urban farming and local food production within the housing environment.
05
Designed with seismic resistance in mind, utilizing innovative structural materials and techniques.

### Overview
Located in a contemporary urban setting, the Interlocking Modular System explores innovative approaches to modular construction and urban resilience. The design addresses the imperative needs for adaptability, sustainability, and community integration. It features an arrangement of interdependent modular units that can be reconfigured according to varying requirements, fostering not just architectural flexibility, but a dialogue with the surrounding built environment. The repetitive modular units, characterized by large circular openings, provide both functional and aesthetic benefits.

### Materiality and Structural Design
The primary material utilized is reinforced concrete, recognized for its strength and durability, ensuring the structural integrity of the interlocking units. The integration of recycled rubber aggregate within the concrete enhances sustainability by incorporating repurposed materials and improves resilience against dynamic forces. Steel wire reinforcement adds tensile strength, further ensuring the structure's capability to withstand seismic activities. This careful selection of materials reflects an emphasis on environmental impact reduction and long-term performance.

### Functional and Community Spaces
The design allocates distinct units for various functions, enhancing user experience through thoughtful spatial organization. Residential layouts include both single and double occupancy bedroom units for versatility. Essential wellness amenities, such as healthcare and shower units, are incorporated to support sanitation and emergency needs. Community-oriented spaces focus on education and interaction, facilitating social engagement. Additionally, agricultural units are designed to promote self-sustainability and local food production, addressing contemporary societal challenges while encouraging resource conservation through efficient systems for water collection and energy use.

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Enter an open 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

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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
Advance registration deadline 18 February 2026

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

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