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Translucent Polycarbonate Shelter with Integrated Wooden Slats Supporting Community Engagement

Authors:
Laura Paz, Mateo Boasso
Translucent Polycarbonate Shelter with Integrated Wooden Slats Supporting Community Engagement
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Constructed with wooden slats and a translucent envelope, the shelter maximizes natural light and fosters community interactions, providing a functional space for travelers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a modular framework to enhance flexibility and ease of assembly.
02
Utilizes a translucent envelope that maximizes natural lighting while maintaining energy efficiency.
03
Incorporates wooden slats that contribute to both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features a layout that encourages continuous interaction with the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed to be energy self-sufficient through integrated solar panel systems.

The design presents a modular solution located in a natural setting, focused on providing a functional space for travelers. It serves as both shelter and communal area, allowing for various activities while reducing the need for external elements that can interfere with comfort. The concept emphasizes sustainable practices and efficient use of space, creating a strong relationship between the interior and exterior environments.

Natural Light and Energy Efficiency

The design features wooden slats and a translucent envelope that enhance the entry of natural light into the interior. This arrangement helps the structure utilize energy from solar panels by allowing light to fill the space during the day. The ability to store this energy for night use underscores the building's energy efficiency. The focus on natural lighting not only fulfills practical needs but also improves the overall experience for those who use the space.

Spatial Organization and Community Interaction

The layout maintains a direct connection with the surrounding landscape, positioning functional areas parallel to the building's envelopes. This design choice allows for a continuous flow of air, light, and sound. It also encourages people to come together, creating a welcoming area for sharing experiences and stories. The organization of spaces enhances interaction, supporting a sense of community among travelers who find themselves in this unique place.

Material Selection

Wood and polycarbonate are the materials chosen for their environmental benefits and usability. Wood contributes to thermal comfort, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere inside the structure. Polycarbonate, by allowing natural light to fill the building while maintaining energy efficiency, plays a vital role in the overall design. The careful selection of these materials shows a commitment to sustainability while keeping the design functional and effective.

The modular design allows for flexibility and straightforward construction. This thoughtful blending of materials, light, and spaces culminates in a structure that encourages connections among users while respecting the natural surroundings. A careful design detail, such as the way light filters through the slats, adds depth to the experience, enhancing the overall quality of the environment.

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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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