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Aluminum Structures with Grass Cover Support Poetic Reflection and Community

Authors:
Lan Wang, Yuan Meng
Aluminum Structures with Grass Cover Support Poetic Reflection and Community
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Incorporating a unique aluminum structure covered with grass, the design creates a harmonious environment that fosters both individual meditation and communal interaction for poets.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aluminum structure enhances durability and reduces maintenance needs.
02
Grass cover improves air quality and promotes ecological benefits.
03
Meditation shelter provides dedicated quiet spaces within the community.
04
Interactive platform fosters direct engagement between hosts and poets.
05
Multiple room configurations accommodate diverse community living needs.

"Sparkle in Corners" introduces an innovative take on spatial design, aimed specifically at poets. The setting promotes creativity and inspiration, offering spaces that allow for work, reflection, and connection. The design thoughtfully balances the need for solitude with opportunities for communication, making it a fitting environment for artistic expression.

Functional Spaces
The layout encompasses various areas tailored to meet the demands of its users. There is a multifunctional space that can adapt to different activities, ensuring versatility. A common kitchen encourages residents to gather for meals, fostering interaction among poets. The dining room serves as a place for communal experiences, while accommodations include single rooms, double rooms for two, and double rooms for four, providing comfort and privacy as needed.

Interactive Elements
A significant aspect of this design is the emphasis on creating connections among users. A dedicated corner for meditation allows individuals to find quiet time, providing a necessary balance to the community spaces. There is also an interactive platform that connects hosts with poets, facilitating discussions. This aspect enhances social ties and promotes collaborative creativity, key components of this environment.

Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability plays an important role in the design. A solar panel is integrated to make use of renewable energy sources, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility. Grass is laid over a suspension grid, which helps improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Additionally, a light strip is included to provide efficient lighting, contributing to the overall ecological goal of the project.

Technical Details
The attention to detail is evident throughout the project. Elevations showcase how the design interacts with its surroundings, presenting views from all sides—north, south, east, and west. An aluminum plate is incorporated into the structure, enhancing both durability and visual appeal. Each element has been considered to create a harmonious environment suitable for reflection and creativity.

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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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