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Solar-Powered Steel Modules Featuring Ample Natural Light and Flexible Living Spaces

Solar-Powered Steel Modules Featuring Ample Natural Light and Flexible Living Spaces
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Comprising two shipping containers with solar integration and abundant natural light, this small-scale residence exemplifies modern, flexible living solutions designed for efficiency and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Two interconnected shipping containers provide a modular living configuration.
02
Solar panels integrated into the roof support energy self-sufficiency.
03
Large glass openings maximize natural light and outdoor connectivity.
04
Compact interior design features multifunctional furniture for flexibility.
05
Standard shipping dimensions facilitate easy transport and assembly.

## Overview

HalfHome is situated in diverse environmental contexts, catering to the needs of modern living through an adaptable design utilizing two modular containers. The project is designed to reflect the principles of flexibility, sustainability, and efficiency, addressing the requirements of individuals living transient lifestyles across various settings, from urban centers to remote locations. The intention behind HalfHome is to provide a functional and efficient living space that enhances the user experience while minimizing environmental impact.

### Spatial Configuration and Modularity

The design utilizes two core-shell containers, each equipped with uniform openings to facilitate multiple configurations. This modular approach allows users to tailor their living environment based on their specific needs and preferences. The dimensions of the modules align with standard shipping container sizes, ensuring ease of transport and assembly in diverse locations, whether for temporary housing or permanent residence. Internal layouts are engineered to maximize usability, offering designated areas for cooking, sleeping, and relaxation, supported by multifunctional furniture that enhances versatility.

### Material Considerations and Sustainability

HalfHome’s material selection prioritizes durability and environmental sustainability. The principal building structure is composed of high-strength steel or fiberglass, providing essential structural integrity. Large glass panels are strategically placed to enhance natural light and ventilation, contributing to an overall sense of openness. The integration of solar panels on the roof supports energy self-sufficiency, while eco-friendly materials are employed throughout to minimize the ecological footprint. Flooring options include polished concrete or composite materials, combining practical use with aesthetic simplicity, and interior wood accents provide warmth, highlighting the balance between functionality and design appeal.

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The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
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
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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