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Biodiversity-Friendly Studio with a Green Roof and Local Wood

Authors:
Blake Christenson, Erin Machado, Enrique Brimmer, David Ferengrino
Biodiversity-Friendly Studio with a Green Roof and Local Wood
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With a green roof that fosters biodiversity and the strategic use of local wood, the retreat offers a collaborative and individual studio space tailored for artists and their families.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project includes a dedicated bathhouse for relocating local bat populations.
02
Garden beds are incorporated to promote self-sustainability and local food production.
03
The design employs a wind tunnel effect for natural ventilation between spaces.
04
A green roof serves as both recreational space and biodiversity habitat.
05
Interior layouts prioritize both communal collaboration and private reflection areas for artists.

The Painters' Lakehouse and Workshop is a retreat designed for artists and their families, located in a calm rural landscape next to a tranquil lake and surrounded by fields. The design combines spaces for communal living with areas dedicated to art-making. Through this layout, it aims to support both individual creativity and collaborative artistic activities. The overall intention is to connect the building with its natural surroundings, enhancing the experiences of its occupants.

Natural Light and Ventilation

Natural light plays an important role in the experience of the spaces. Windows and openings are placed throughout the structure to ensure ample illumination, making it a comfortable place to create. The design also features a clever use of wind to aid ventilation. By creating a path for the breeze between the living area and the workshop, it helps maintain a pleasant indoor climate. This feature not only benefits comfort but also stimulates creativity, allowing artists to feel more inspired.

Material Selection

The materials used in the Painters' Lakehouse reflect local traditions and are chosen with care. Wood is the primary material, providing warmth and a connection to the outdoors. Glass is used in windows to bring in views of the landscape and flood the interiors with light. Natural stone is included as well, offering durability while blending the structure with its environment. These materials work together to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

Ecological Sensitivity

Consideration for the local ecosystem is central to the design. A small population of bats occupies the existing structure, leading to plans for their relocation to a specially constructed bathhouse. Keeping wildlife in mind highlights a commitment to protecting the natural environment while allowing for human habitation. Additionally, garden beds are incorporated to promote sustainable living, encouraging residents to grow their own food and develop a deeper connection with their surroundings.

Green Roof Functionality

The green roof is a prominent feature of the design. It serves multiple purposes, working as an outdoor space for relaxation and artistic activities. This part of the architecture encourages interaction with the outdoors, providing a pleasant area for artistic pursuits. The green roof also supports ecological benefits, like enhancing biodiversity and managing rainwater effectively. It fits well into the landscape and adds to the overall character of the project.

With its open layout, the Lakehouse invites natural light to flow freely throughout its spaces, making it an enjoyable place for creativity. While areas are designed for collaboration, cozy corners are made for quiet reflection, giving artists the chance to immerse themselves in their work.

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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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