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Biodiverse Garden Enclosed with Wooden Slats and Reeds

Authors:
Gabriel-andrei Alexoiu, Bianca-maria Paun, Cristiana-alexandra Comanici
Biodiverse Garden Enclosed with Wooden Slats and Reeds
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A wooden slatted fence encloses a biodiverse garden that captures zenithal light through strategically placed windows, creating private and communal spaces for contemporary living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The courtyard features a wooden slatted fence that promotes biodiversity.
02
Zenithal light windows enhance natural lighting in the workshop area.
03
Private spaces are strategically oriented to maximize southern sunlight.
04
The garden design incorporates local flora to support the ecosystem.
05
The entrance includes a fountain, creating an inviting transition into the home.

The design revolves around a central courtyard, creating a space that serves both personal and community needs. It is situated in a peaceful setting that encourages quiet moments as well as social interactions. The overall layout fosters a close connection between the living spaces and nature, illustrating a modern approach to comfortable living. Residents can enjoy both the privacy of their own areas and the communal benefits that come from shared spaces.

Design Concept

The courtyard is the heart of the layout, promoting movement and interaction among the various zones in the residence. It acts as an inviting garden that draws people in while offering shelter from the wind. The wooden slat fence enhances this protected environment, contributing to a lively ecosystem within the garden that supports local plants and wildlife.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces is carefully planned to align with cardinal directions, maximizing light and comfort. Private areas, oriented to the south, benefit from direct sunlight throughout the day. In contrast, common spaces face west, taking advantage of the wind protection offered by the fencing. The workshop area is designed with windows that face the lake and inner garden, allowing natural light to fill the room. This thoughtful layout creates an inviting atmosphere throughout the home.

Materiality and Sustainability

The design incorporates materials that emphasize sustainability. Wooden slates are used for the fence, defining the courtyard while assisting local biodiversity. The roof is constructed with reeds, providing insulation to keep the home comfortable without harming the environment. This focus on eco-friendly materials aligns with current architectural trends that prioritize responsible building practices.

Architectural Journey

The experience of moving through the space begins at a fountain located at the main entrance, guiding visitors to the entrance hall. This area connects private living quarters with shared spaces, offering a fluid transition between the two. Well-placed corridors and the interior garden reveal different viewpoints, encouraging exploration and engagement with both the building and its surroundings. Each detail, from the carefully planned pathways to the inviting outdoor spaces, contributes to a sense of community grounded in nature.

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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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