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Vertical Gardens of Upcycled Materials in a Sustainable Family Home

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Vertical Gardens of Upcycled Materials in a Sustainable Family Home
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Utilizing vertical gardens and upcycled materials, the design showcases a sustainable approach to modern living, creating a cohesive environment for family interaction and individual privacy.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates vertical gardens to promote biodiversity and food production within the residential environment.
02
Constructed using upcycled materials, minimizing waste and environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity while providing aesthetic appeal.
04
Utilizes mycelium leather for interior furnishings, supporting eco-friendly practices.
05
Integrates flexible inner spaces that adapt to changing family dynamics over time.

### Project Overview

Bushra House, designed with contemporary architectural principles, is situated in a context that supports innovative and sustainable family living. The design intent focuses on harmonizing individual autonomy with communal interaction, promoting both unity and privacy within a single dwelling. Through deliberate spatial organization and material choices, the residence serves not only as a home but also as a model for future residential architecture that prioritizes familial connections alongside personal freedoms.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The architectural layout of Bushra House facilitates a blend of private and communal spaces, enhancing family cohesion while allowing for personal retreats. A central corridor interconnects various rooms, ensuring that family members remain engaged. Each area opens into shared spaces, which include patios and versatile openings, allowing for diverse interactions and activities—ranging from quiet reflection to social gatherings. Key design elements such as the Majlis and designated play areas are incorporated to encourage informal exchanges, underpinning the house’s commitment to fostering a community-oriented environment.

### Sustainable Material Use

Bushra House employs innovative sustainable materials that align with its ecological philosophy. Furniture and decor are crafted from recycled denim, cotton, and paper, contributing to a circular economy and minimizing environmental impact. The exterior utilizes a mixture of concrete featuring sand, stones, and pigments, offering both visual interest and structural integrity. Additional elements include mycelium leather, which serves as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional leather, and decorative bricks made from upcycled textiles that provide insulation while showcasing functional artistry. These material selections not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the residence but also reflect a comprehensive commitment to sustainability and responsible design practices.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
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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