The Big Green House Returns to the National Mall
Originally Published by: SBCA Magazine — August 26, 2025
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The Structural Building Components Association (SBCA) is excited to return as an exhibitor to the National Mall for HUD’s Innovative Housing Showcase (IHS).
What to Expect on the National Mall
SBCA in collaboration with the National Framers Council (NFC), and SBCA member company, 84 Lumber, will frame and dry-in a 1,500-square-foot, two-story duplex. This structure will stand throughout the event offering attendees a firsthand look at how offsite manufactured structural components, such as roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels, dramatically improve the framing process. Building with components as a system provides measurable advantages in time savings, labor efficiency, and material use.
Project Partners
SBCA is working with several SBCA member companies to bring this year’s exhibit to life. 84 Lumber will frame the house onsite and supply all components and materials, including windows and doors. The design for the architecture and engineering of the house design was developed by BeLit/Apex/True Design Studios, with Huber Engineered Woods providing the exterior sheathing, Simpson Strong-Tie supplying the hardware, and MiTek supporting the exhibit with marketing signage and AV throughout the five-day event.
Why We’re Doing It
Component manufacturers span across the United States with over 1,300 locations. By building on the National Mall, we demonstrate that whether for a single-family home or a large multi-family project, componentized framing is the best way to frame. Housing challenges in the United States are growing, and components, with their existing scalability and efficiency, are part of the solution to availability, affordability, and accessibility.
Engaging Congress & the Public
Members of Congress will be invited to tour the exhibits on the National Mall this year, showcasing the various methods of homebuilding, innovation, and technologies. SBCA's exhibit will help to provide a clear view of how componentized framing is a scalable and efficient solution to housing. Public attendees will also walk through the house and talk directly with SBCA staff and members about how components work and what they mean for builders, designers, and homeowners alike.
Education & Industry Impact
On Tuesday, September 9, the Innovative Housing Showcase will feature education sessions designed to raise awareness of innovative and affordable housing designs and technologies. Events like IHS are vital for sharing the industry’s voice, tools, and knowledge, while building stronger connections between component manufacturers, policymakers, and the broader construction community.
Spread the Word
Spread the word about SBCA’s exhibit at HUD’s Innovative Housing Showcase and invite your customers, local representatives, partners, and teams to come check it out. We’ll be on the National Mall with the “big green house” showcasing firsthand why trusses and wall panels are the most efficient, scalable, and effective way to frame.
Learn more and stay tuned about SBCA at the Innovative Housing Showcase: https://www.sbcacomponents.com/ihs.
Learn more about HUD’s 2025 Innovative Housing Showcase at: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/ihs.html.