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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Artis Miezītis, Artis2 Miezītis2
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design exemplifies a sustainable approach while serving as a multifunctional community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a living roof that enhances biodiversity while providing natural insulation.
02
Features modular spaces that can adapt to various community functions.
03
Utilizes a unique combination of charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Employs high-performance glazing systems to maximize natural light while minimizing energy loss.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management and usage.

### Overview

The project is situated in a digitally rendered landscape characterized by an ethereal atmosphere infused with both surreal and naturalistic elements. The intent is to explore the emotional resonance of space through distinct thematic representations of contrasting environments—an otherworldly landscape marked by dramatic lighting, and a vivid forest scene that emphasizes seasonal transformation. Each setting provides a platform for contemplation, revealing deeper connections with nature and the human experience.

### Spatial Characteristics

The first depicted landscape features undulating topography, which creates a sense of depth and scale. The interplay of darkness and a mysterious light source evokes a sense of movement and discovery, drawing the viewer's eye through the space. Key visual elements include the commanding peaks set against the soft contours of the grassy plains, which introduce a tactile quality through contrasting textures. The composition's gradient colors accentuate the contrasts between light and shadow, suggesting layers of visibility and obscurity.

In the second representation, lush foliage frames the scene, creating a protective canopy that immerses the viewer in vibrant autumnal hues. The composition presents a blurred background that encourages exploration, inviting the observer to delve deeper into the forest. The rich colors and soft light filtering through the trees foster a tranquil yet dynamic mood, suggesting themes of renewal and vitality. The trees and their lively leaves serve as symbols of the cyclical nature of life, reinforcing the depth of the spatial experience.

### Material Expression

Though digital in nature, the rendered landscapes evoke natural materials that symbolize the essence of the settings. In the first image, elements such as grass reflect growth, while the rugged textures of stones convey permanence. The ethereal quality of air and light adds to a sense of transcendence. In contrast, the second image hints at organic materials like tree bark, which represents resilience, and the diverse foliage that embodies the vibrancy of change. The ground's textural shadow signifies the often-unseen foundation of life, enhancing the experiential quality of the space. Each visual narrative not only showcases physical beauty but also encapsulates complex emotional and conceptual themes, encouraging reflection and engagement with the environment.

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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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