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Vertical Slats of Timber Envelop a Compact Living Space with Intelligent Use of Natural Light

Vertical Slats of Timber Envelop a Compact Living Space with Intelligent Use of Natural Light
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Characterized by its vertical timber slats and extensive use of natural light, this compact living space integrates sustainable materials and innovative design to facilitate modern urban dwelling.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical timber slats enhance privacy while allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interior.
02
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural stability while minimizing material use.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide superior insulation and sustainability compared to traditional materials.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer enhanced weather resistance and an aesthetically unique surface finish.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems contribute to the project’s overall resource efficiency.

## Project Overview
The MiCA (Micro Cabin Annex) is positioned as a prototype for sustainable living solutions, addressing contemporary urban challenges through a low-impact architectural approach. The design integrates environmental considerations with modern construction practices, aiming to reduce ecological footprints while promoting compact living spaces that prioritize functionality and adaptability.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural design of the MiCA emphasizes modularity, allowing for adaptability across various contexts and uses. This flexibility caters to diverse user needs and supports rapid construction, making it suitable for urban infill or temporary installations. The interior layout is designed to accommodate multiple configurations, such as work, dining, and sleeping arrangements, thereby maximizing utility while minimizing clutter.

### Material Selection
The MiCA utilizes a carefully curated selection of materials to enhance its performance and sustainability. Key materials include:

- **Wood**: Utilized for structural components and finishes, providing warmth and aesthetic appeal while creating privacy and shade through vertical slats.
- **Glass**: Large panels enhance natural light penetration and visual connectivity with the surrounding environment.
- **Steel**: Incorporated into structural elements, providing durability and strength essential for the micro cabin's modular nature.
- **Concrete**: Used for flooring and foundational elements, offering thermal regulation and stability.
- **Thermoplastic**: Lightweight insulating panels improve energy efficiency.
- **Green Roof System**: Comprising planted vegetation, this system enhances biodiversity, reduces stormwater runoff, and contributes to the overall thermal performance of the structure.

The design balances aesthetics and functionality while committing to sustainable materials and practices, creating an environment conducive to a modern lifestyle.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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