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Sustainable Microhomes with Cold-Formed Steel and Greenheart Wood in a Community-Centric Design

Sustainable Microhomes with Cold-Formed Steel and Greenheart Wood in a Community-Centric Design
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Featuring cold-formed steel framing and sustainably sourced Greenheart wood, these microhomes create an adaptive living space that fosters community while addressing the housing needs of immigrant workers in Providenciales.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cold-formed steel framing for enhanced structural stability in hurricane-prone areas.
02
Incorporates sustainably sourced Greenheart wood for both aesthetic and environmental benefits.
03
Features a rainwater harvesting system to promote resource efficiency and sustainability.
04
The layout encourages a micro-community design, fostering social interaction among residents.
05
Transformable furniture solutions maximize space utilization within compact living areas.

### Project Overview

The microhome development in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, addresses the critical need for affordable housing amidst increasing tourism-related pressures. Designed specifically for immigrant workers, the project focuses on providing dignified living solutions that prioritize sustainability and efficient use of local resources. Its intent is to foster community integration while responding to the urgent demands of the local housing market.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Development

The layout consists of 20 microhomes organized within a compact footprint of 55m x 55m, facilitating the formation of a micro-community. Shared access points and communal spaces encourage social connectivity and interaction among residents, redefining the conventional suburban model to promote cooperative living. The interior design incorporates multifunctional furniture and a raised floor system that addresses flood concerns and maximizes storage, contributing to both comfort and efficient use of space.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project utilizes a range of sustainable materials, each selected for its performance and environmental impact. Cold-formed steel framing provides a lightweight, durable option capable of withstanding hurricane conditions. Greenheart wood, sustainably sourced from Guyana, serves as a key material for structural elements. Additionally, high-efficiency solar panels are integrated into the design to support off-grid electricity generation. The use of marine plywood in flooring and walls ensures resilience against humidity, while insulated shielding walls enhance thermal performance through natural ventilation. Rainwater harvesting and septic systems further contribute to sustainable practices, aligning with the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

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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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