For over half a century, the American suburban home has been more than just a building—it has been a cultural symbol, a promise, and at times a problem. Once imagined as the embodiment of comfort and stability, it now often represents excess, isolation, and environmental strain. How can this archetype be redefined for a century marked by climate urgency, economic pressure, and shifting social values? What does the “American home” mean today, and what should it mean tomorrow?
What makes a home?
The Next House: USA is Buildner’s invitation to explore those questions. This competition calls on architects, designers, and thinkers worldwide to envision a new suburban prototype: a home that is compact yet generous, adaptable yet grounded, replicable yet sensitive to place. It asks participants to go beyond size and spectacle, and instead focus on what makes a home truly meaningful—its adaptability, sustainability, affordability, and ability to nurture both family and community life.
Design a new prototype
With a total prize fund of 20,000 USD, the competition is open to all, from students to established professionals. The task is to design a home for a standard household of two adults and one child, with a maximum size of 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²), conceived as a prototype that could be replicated across the diverse climates and contexts of the United States.
What is the Next House?
The Next House: USA aims to spark a broader conversation: how can the suburban home evolve to reflect today’s realities and tomorrow’s aspirations?
The Next House: USA seeks ideas that redefine the American home—not as a relic of the past, but as a foundation for a smarter, healthier, and more connected future.
Prizes
Total prize Fund 20,000 $
1ST PLACE 10,000 USD
2ND PLACE 5,000 USD
3RD PLACE 3,000 USD
Student award 1,000 USD
Sustainability award 1,000 USD
6 Honorable mentions
Key dates
Closing date for registration 20 May 2026
Closing date for project submission 30 June 2026
Announcement of the winners 22 September 2026
Competition Q&A deadline 26 May 2026
Registration fees
EARLY BIRD 24 Sep – 19 Nov | 70-110 €
ADVANCED 20 Nov – 18 Feb | 80-120 €
LAST MINUTE 19 Feb – 20 May | 90-140 €
