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Vertical Living Units Made from Quadcore Insulated Panels with Integrated Green Roofs

Vertical Living Units Made from Quadcore Insulated Panels with Integrated Green Roofs
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Crafted from QuadCore insulated panels and designed with a vertical living approach, these urban units utilize rooftop space and green infrastructure to provide sustainable housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with QuadCore insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
02
Designed for modular assembly, reducing construction time and waste.
03
Utilizes rooftop space to integrate community gardens and green infrastructure.
04
Incorporates advanced noise-reduction materials in flooring and ceilings.
05
Features a distinct triangular footprint to maximize usable interior space.

### Project Overview

Ecto Home is designed as a response to the anticipated housing crisis affecting urban populations by 2024, where over half of city dwellers may struggle with affordable housing. Located in Manhattan, New York, this project focuses on creating sustainable, above-grid living spaces that utilize contemporary design methodologies and technology to address pressing socio-economic issues.

### Spatial Strategy

The design features autonomous structures that deviate from conventional residential models, emphasizing operational efficiency and sustainability. By utilizing rooftop spaces, Ecto Homes contribute to urban densification while promoting community engagement. This strategic approach creates not only individual housing units but also communal areas that cultivate social interaction and resource sharing among residents.

### Material Innovation

Ecto Homes employ a variety of advanced materials and technologies aimed at optimizing environmental performance and occupant comfort. Key elements include:

- **QuadCore® LEC Insulated Panels** for enhanced insulation and soundproofing.
- **Lightweight, modular components** that simplify construction and transportation, allowing adaptability to diverse urban environments.
- **Prefabricated construction methods** that ensure quality control and expedite assembly processes.
- **Photovoltaic panels** that potentially generate 8,000 kWh/year, supporting energy independence.
- **Rainwater collection systems** designed to facilitate domestic water usage.

These choices reflect a commitment to sustainability, minimizing carbon footprint while enhancing the living conditions within the Ecto Homes.

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The Next House: USA
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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.

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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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