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Treehousing Through Deconstruction with Community Roots

Author:
Wolfgang Lackner
Treehousing Through Deconstruction with Community Roots
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By reimagining the use of local trees through careful deconstruction techniques, the design creates adaptable living spaces that foster community connection and ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local trees through a deconstruction approach for building materials.
02
Adaptable design allows customization to fit various community needs.
03
Incorporates natural elements to enhance ecological integration.
04
Features intricate joinery that highlights the craftsmanship of tree construction.
05
Engages local residents in the building process, fostering a sense of community.

The design emphasizes a strong connection to nature, reflecting a relationship between human living spaces and the surrounding environment. Situated in a context that blends built structures with natural elements, the project seeks to redefine housing through practical yet innovative concepts. The goal is to create living spaces that work in harmony with their surroundings, focusing on a sustainable approach that respects local materials and ecological systems.

Conceptual Framework

The project involves a careful examination of traditional housing styles, showcasing the process of reworking trees into functional building elements. This includes slicing, sawing, and gluing trees back together. Here, trees are not just raw materials; they become integral parts of a new design. The approach balances the beauty of nature with the needs of human use, creating a thoughtful relationship between the two.

Adaptability and Community Engagement

Flexibility is a key feature, allowing various sizes and designs to cater to different needs and preferences. This adaptability makes it easier for the living space to fit within its environment. Furthermore, the project emphasizes community involvement, encouraging local residents to participate in the construction process. This involvement fosters a deeper connection to the space, enhancing the sense of ownership among the people who will live there.

Sustainable Practices

There is a clear focus on sourcing trees from the local environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. While specific materials are not detailed, the use of organic elements underscores an intent to reduce environmental impact. This design promotes a responsible form of architecture that values ecological relationships while addressing human needs.

The final design features intricate joinery techniques that reveal the beauty and strength of the trees used. These details not only highlight the skill involved in the construction but also serve as a gentle reminder of the natural source of the materials. The completed structure stands as a quiet testament to the harmony between human habitation and the earth.

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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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