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Amplifying Forest Sounds Through Glass and Wood Enclosure

Authors:
Arie Gross Sanchez, Daniela Peñailillo Gajardo
Amplifying Forest Sounds Through Glass and Wood Enclosure
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A glass and wooden structure designed to amplify the forest's auditory environment provides an intimate space for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to amplify natural sound, enhancing the meditative experience.
02
North-facing glass volume maximizes natural light and warmth.
03
Wooden enclosure reduces visual distractions, encouraging introspection.
04
Access ramp signifies a transition from the exterior to a tranquil interior.
05
Structure integrates with the forest, promoting a deeper connection to nature.

The Sound Box is an architectural design that focuses on meditation and the experience of sound in a forest setting. The aim is to create a space where visitors can connect with nature through auditory elements. Situated in a tranquil environment, the structure invites users to engage with their surroundings in a profound manner that promotes self-reflection.

Concept and Space

The design centers on amplifying the natural sounds of the forest, making them integral to the meditation experience. A glass volume faces North to capture light and warmth, taking advantage of the greenhouse effect to maintain a comfortable atmosphere inside. This orientation not only serves practical needs but also enhances the beauty of the internal space, helping to integrate the building with its environment.

Transition and Experience

Visitors enter the Sound Box via a gentle ramp that signifies a shift from the outside world to a peaceful sanctuary. Inside, a wooden volume creates a feeling of enclosure and intimacy, limiting visual distractions. This design encourages individuals to focus on their thoughts and the sounds of the forest around them, enriching the meditative process. The layout of the space effectively fosters a sense of calm and introspection.

Materiality and Design Detail

The use of glass and wood plays a vital role in defining the character of the Sound Box. The glass allows for clear views of the natural landscape while the wooden elements provide warmth and texture to the interior. This combination creates a welcoming environment where the external and internal elements harmonize. Attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the design contributes to a thoughtful experience, inviting users to immerse themselves fully in the soundscapes of the forest.

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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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