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Sustainable Living with Reclaimed Wood and Green Roof Techniques in Compact Design

Authors:
Michele Mazzaro, Eric James Maurer
Sustainable Living with Reclaimed Wood and Green Roof Techniques in Compact Design
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Constructed with reclaimed wood and topped with a green roof, this compact dwelling optimizes resources and sustainability while providing essential living space amid Venezuela's challenging economic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with locally sourced reclaimed wood to minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a green roof for rainwater harvesting and temperature regulation.
03
Utilizes flexible furnishings to maximize functionality in limited square footage.
04
Features an adaptable design that allows for self-build capabilities by local residents.
05
Employs natural ventilation strategies to enhance indoor comfort and reduce energy use.

The architectural project titled "25 m² Vision for Scarcity" addresses the socio-economic challenges faced in Venezuela by proposing an efficient living solution within a limited footprint of 25 square meters. This design focuses on resilience, sustainability, and adaptability, aiming to provide a functional living space that meets basic needs while integrating innovative architectural strategies. The project represents a response to scarcity, offering practical insights into housing solutions for communities in similar situations.

Unique Aspects of Design and Functionality

The "25 m² Vision for Scarcity" is distinguished by its commitment to environmental sustainability and resourcefulness. The project incorporates a combination of locally available materials, such as reclaimed wood, oak, corrugated fiber cement, and concrete, which align with traditional building practices in Venezuela. This choice not only reduces costs but also fosters community engagement in the construction process.

A flexible interior layout maximizes usability of limited space, featuring furnishings such as a Murphy bed, pull-down desk, and fold-away storage units that enhance multifunctionality. The design optimizes natural light through strategically placed windows, ensuring a livable environment without excessive reliance on electrical lighting. Furthermore, the incorporation of systems like a green roof for rainwater collection and solar panels for energy generation reinforces the project’s sustainability goals, providing autonomy in energy and water management.

Innovative Approaches to Sustainability

Sustainability is a key focus in the "25 m² Vision for Scarcity." The project integrates several systems aimed at promoting self-sufficiency. The green roof not only contributes to water management but also allows residents to cultivate gardens, connecting inhabitants to their environment. The photovoltaic array serves dual purposes by supplying electricity and enabling the structure to remain functional despite unreliable external power sources.

Additionally, the architecture employs a natural ventilation strategy that enhances thermal comfort while minimizing energy consumption. This approach underscores the project's overarching goal of resilience in housing, promoting a lifestyle that maximizes resource efficiency amidst economic constraints.

For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that inform its execution. Understanding the architectural details of the "25 m² Vision for Scarcity" can offer valuable insights into effective housing solutions for contemporary challenges.

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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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