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Artificial Clouds and Glass Encasement Overlooking Lake Hallwil

Authors:
Vrutangi Patel, Kshitij Wadhwa
Artificial Clouds and Glass Encasement Overlooking Lake Hallwil
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Drawing water from Lake Hallwil to generate an artificial cloud, this residence blends a glass cube structure with a metal cage, creating a unique living environment that harmonizes with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Artificial clouds are generated using high-pressure water jets that draw directly from Lake Hallwil.
02
The residence is designed as a three-level glass cube encased in a parametric metal cage.
03
A central green court features openable roof panels, inviting nature indoors.
04
The design utilizes a brise soleil system to effectively manage sunlight exposure.
05
Adjustable cloud density allows for customizable light and atmospheric conditions within the home.

BECLOUD is located on the shores of Lake Hallwil. The residence is designed to blend with its natural surroundings. At its heart is a glass cube that spans three levels, creating bright and open living spaces. This concept allows occupants to feel close to the landscape, with views that connect them to the serenity of the water.

Structural Framework

The home is surrounded by a cage made of metal members. This structure provides essential support for the glass cube and contributes to the overall look of the building. Using glass and metal together, the design balances transparency and strength. The result is a home that feels both light and durable, inviting nature inside while standing firm against the elements.

Environmental Interaction

A notable feature of BECLOUD is the high-pressure water jet nozzles that draw water from the lake. These nozzles create an artificial cloud around the house. This cloud can be adjusted in density, allowing residents to change the light and atmosphere within their home. By responding to changing weather, this feature offers both a visual delight and an enhanced living experience.

Interior Layout

Inside, the spaces open up to a central green court. This area includes roof panels that can be opened, allowing natural elements to flow into the home. This layout encourages a connection between indoor and outdoor settings. The design emphasizes a natural feel, creating an environment that invites the outside world in while providing comfort and shelter.

Light Management

The metal cage also acts as a sunshade, managing the amount of sunlight that enters the home. This helps keep interior spaces comfortable and reduces energy use. By controlling light levels, the design contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. The thoughtful use of materials and structures ensures that the home remains a cozy retreat, no matter the time of day.

With its ability to engage with the landscape, BECLOUD offers a unique living experience. It blends nature with the comforts of home, creating a simple yet effective architectural expression.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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