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?

The Next House: USA is an invitation to explore those questions. This competition calls 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.

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.

Prizes:

• first prize: $10,000
• second prize: $5,000
• third prize $3,000

Registration is subject to a fee. The price depends on whether the applicant is a student or not and whether the amount will be paid in one lump sum or in three installments.

The registration deadline is May 20, 2026. The deadline for project submission is June 30, 2026. The winners will be announced on September 22, 2026.

More information can be found here and at the email address contact@buildner.com.