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Sewage Treatment Integration with Green Roof and PEX Pipes in Community Space

Author:
Natalia Fira
Sewage Treatment Integration with Green Roof and PEX Pipes in Community Space
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Incorporating a home sewage treatment system and PEX pipes, the design enhances ecological sensitivity while providing a multifunctional space for community engagement and plant cultivation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a home sewage treatment plant with absorbent wells for eco-friendly waste management.
02
Features a greenhouse designed for year-round plant cultivation and community interaction.
03
Utilizes PEX pipes under dark roofing for efficient heating water circulation.
04
Eliminates architectural barriers to ensure full accessibility for all users.
05
Includes a green roof terrace that enhances insulation and provides a quiet outdoor space.

The design reflects a thoughtful approach to sustainability and community living, integrating functional spaces that serve both residents and visitors. Located in an area that values ecological considerations, the building features a greenhouse as a core element of its design. The overall concept combines energy efficiency and accessibility, meeting the needs of diverse users while being mindful of the natural environment.

Ecological Integration

The design makes sustainability a priority through innovative energy solutions. A greenhouse is positioned on the southern side of the building to take advantage of sunlight, allowing for maximum solar gain. This strategy is enhanced by a heating water system located under a dark roofing surface, which helps absorb and distribute heat effectively throughout the space.

Water Management

To further the commitment to sustainability, the northern side of the building includes a home sewage treatment plant and absorbent wells. This system reduces sewage output and repurposes treated wastewater for use in the greenhouse, promoting efficient water usage. By incorporating natural processes into the building's operation, the design fosters a balance between built and natural environments.

Accessibility and Spatial Organization

The layout clearly separates public and private areas to serve various functions. The ground floor acts as a public space, designed with service zones, a workshop, and access to the greenhouse. It includes a reception area and utility spaces that facilitate community activities. The workshop is adaptable, with movable partitions that allow it to be used for different purposes.

On the first floor, private zones are established to provide guest accommodations. This level features serving rooms, day zones, and hotel spaces, promoting comfort and privacy. A green roof terrace above the greenhouse not only adds insulation but also creates an inviting outdoor area, offering a place for residents to connect with nature.

Design Detail

A notable aspect of the project is the use of PEX pipes in the heating system, installed beneath the dark roofing. This setup enhances heating efficiency by allowing heat to transfer quickly and effectively. Such design considerations reflect a commitment to managing resources wisely while creating a functional living environment that supports both ecological and community needs.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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