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Attic Spaces and Stained-Glass Windows in a Community Courtyard Design

Authors:
Argita Saliaj, Mikael Sarkisyants
Attic Spaces and Stained-Glass Windows in a Community Courtyard Design
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An attic space that invites local wildlife and stained-glass windows framing lake views enhance a community-focused complex designed for families and artists.
5 key facts about this project
01
An inner courtyard incorporates an old well, serving as a historical focal point.
02
Attic spaces allow for the presence of local wildlife, enhancing ecological integration.
03
Large stained-glass windows provide dynamic views of the surrounding lake.
04
Workshop areas are designed for flexible use, accommodating various artistic practices.
05
The layout emphasizes both communal and private spaces, fostering interaction and solitude.

The DACHA project is located beside a scenic lake, where the design takes inspiration from the natural environment. This residential complex serves families and artists, blending living areas with spaces dedicated to creative work. The concept focuses on creating a connection between indoor and outdoor experiences, all while embracing the calming beauty of the landscape.

Design Concept

The layout consists of three main components: beach verandas, residential cabins, and artist workshops. These elements are arranged to encourage both community interaction and personal reflection. The spatial organization helps create a supportive environment where creativity can flourish alongside family life.



Central Courtyard

At the center of the complex is an inner courtyard formed by two residential buildings and a workshop for artists. This space acts as a communal hub, where residents can gather and enjoy the outdoors. An old well within the courtyard serves as a historical reminder, connecting the present to the past. This area not only brings people together but also enhances the overall atmosphere, inviting occupants to relax and engage with nature.



Interior Arrangement

On the first floor, the design features an open layout that links communal spaces, such as a living room designed for family gatherings around a fireplace. Large stained-glass windows let in ample light and provide views of the lake, creating a warm and welcoming environment. The workshops play a crucial role, offering flexible spaces that cater to the artistic process and collaboration, highlighting the importance of functionality.



Unique Architectural Detail

A standout aspect of the design is the attic, which adds an element of curiosity and exploration. This space can be used for different purposes and allows local wildlife, like bats, to inhabit the area. This connection to nature is an important feature, emphasizing the relationship between the built environment and its surroundings. The choices made in the design reflect a focus on simplicity and practicality, contributing to the overall character of the complex.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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