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Solar-Powered Shelter with Jalousie Windows and Sustainable Systems

Author:
Natasha Mahmud
Solar-Powered Shelter with Jalousie Windows and Sustainable Systems
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Utilizing solar panels and jalousie windows, the design offers a compact, transportable shelter equipped with sustainable systems, catering to the immediate housing needs of communities affected by crises.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features integrated solar panels for self-sustaining energy.
02
Incorporates jalousie windows for adaptable ventilation.
03
Designed for quick assembly and disassembly for rapid deployment.
04
Includes a rainwater catchment system for resource efficiency.
05
Equipped with a composting toilet to minimize environmental impact.

The Concentric Micro-Home addresses the pressing housing needs of communities affected by natural disasters and civil conflicts. Designed for rapid deployment, the micro-home emphasizes modularity and adaptability, making it suitable for quickly changing circumstances. Its layout integrates essential living functions within a compact footprint, creating a practical space for those in need.

Key Features and Functionality

The interior layout features a kitchen and dining area, work space, closet, shower, toilet, and living zones, all within a total area of 25 square meters. With two levels, the design makes effective use of space while meeting the basic requirements of residents facing challenging situations. Each room is arranged to provide flexibility, allowing occupants to adjust the usage based on their immediate needs.



Sustainable Energy Solutions

Equipped with solar panels that produce 400 watts each, the micro-home incorporates renewable energy as a solution to its energy needs. This focus on sustainability reduces dependence on external energy sources. The system is designed to provide a reliable supply of power, ensuring that residents can access necessary amenities even when basic services are disrupted.



Transportability and Modularity

Transportability is a crucial element of this design. The structure can be easily disassembled and compacted for transport by trucks, trains, or ships. Adaptable bases can also be fitted with wheels or skis, allowing for movement depending on local terrain. This arrangement ensures that the micro-home can quickly respond to the housing needs of communities and provides a timely solution in emergencies.



Material Considerations

Material choice impacts the performance and longevity of the micro-home. Aluminum is utilized for jalousie windows and doors, providing a combination of lightness and strength that supports fast assembly. Metal mesh reinforces the structure while allowing for airflow. Wooden elements make up the folding terrace, making it functional without compromising the overall look. Steel is used in the bases, contributing to stability and resilience.



The home features practical systems such as a rainwater catchment and composting toilet, enhancing its independence from municipal services. These elements support the micro-home's role as a beneficial option in crisis locations, making it a sensible choice for temporary housing. The careful design reflects a clear understanding of the challenges faced by communities, emphasizing a thoughtful approach to both functionality and sustainability.

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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.

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