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Arching over the Han River with Glass and Steel, Emphasizing Community Connection and Ecological Design

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Arching over the Han River with Glass and Steel, Emphasizing Community Connection and Ecological Design
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With an arching steel structure that elegantly spans the Han River and incorporates transparent glass panels alongside vibrant vegetation, the design transforms urban connectivity into a multifunctional public space dedicated to community engagement and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bridge features a unique arch structure that minimizes visual impact while enhancing airflow and water runoff.
02
Transparent glass panels are incorporated to establish a visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
03
Integrated water gardens utilize natural filtration to improve water quality along the river.
04
Community zones invite public interaction and cultural events, fostering engagement in the urban space.
05
Biodiversity habitats support local flora and fauna, promoting ecological sustainability within an urban environment.

**Project Overview**
"Overflowscape" is a pedestrian bridge design that extends across the Han River in Seoul, South Korea, with the intention of improving connectivity and promoting recreational activities while fostering environmental consciousness. Situated in a historical context influenced by the nearby Jamsu Bridge, which dates back to 1978, the structure aims to evolve from a functional necessity into an engaging civic space that reflects community values of resilience and collaboration.

**Spatial Strategy and User Experience**
The bridge is envisioned as a connector of cultural and natural elements, encouraging leisurely traversal and emphasizing experiential journeys for pedestrians. Not only does the design accommodate various modes of transport, including cyclists, but it also integrates multifunctional spaces such as performance areas and interactive zones. These features promote cultural engagement and community interaction, transforming the bridge into a vibrant public realm.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
The material palette for the bridge includes steel, glass, concrete, wood, and landscape vegetation. Steel provides structural integrity for the span, while glass facilitates natural light and visual connections to the surroundings. Concrete serves as a durable foundation, and wood is used for seating areas, enhancing user comfort. The incorporation of vegetation is designed to support biodiversity and enhance ecological sustainability. Additionally, the project employs green technologies such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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