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Candle-Lit Spaces Reinforcing Timber Warmth in a Two-Story Structure

Author:
Mau Tang Fung
Candle-Lit Spaces Reinforcing Timber Warmth in a Two-Story Structure
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With candle-lit interiors and wooden structures that evoke the form of a bird's nest, the design offers a unique approach to sustainable living in a two-story configuration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Candle illumination replaces electric lighting, promoting a connection to nature.
02
The structure adopts the form of a bird's nest, influencing both shape and layout.
03
Wood is utilized for thermal comfort, staying warm in winter and cool in summer.
04
Prefabricated components streamline construction and reduce project costs.
05
The foundation system elevates the building to accommodate uneven terrain.

The design draws its inspiration from the form of a bird's nest, resulting in a two-story structure that interacts with its natural surroundings. This building emphasizes sustainability by using candle lighting instead of electric illumination. The choice fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging a connection with the natural environment and offering a unique experience for its users.

Conceptual Framework

The project's main concept centers around the shape and function of a bird's nest, which informs both the visual appearance and practical design. This natural influence creates a link between the building and the surrounding landscape, promoting a harmonious living space that is environmentally friendly. The layout not only serves functional needs but also creates a sense of comfort and safety within its walls.

Material Selection

Wood is the primary material used throughout the structure, recognized for its many benefits. The material helps manage indoor temperatures, staying warm in winter and cool in summer. This choice of wood emphasizes the building's connection to nature and enhances the comfort of those inside. The tactile and natural qualities of wood contribute to the overall experience of the space.

Construction Methodology

The project utilizes prefabricated components for its roof, walls, and floors. This method streamlines construction and reduces the need for unnecessary structural supports. Solid profiles are used in the load-bearing frameworks, ensuring a stable and robust construction. By employing these efficient methods, the project minimizes costs and speeds up the installation process, allowing for quicker completion.

Site Considerations

The location presents challenges due to uneven terrain, necessitating a foundation that raises the structure to a level position. This practical solution ensures the building remains stable and usable, adapting well to its environment.

An interesting element of the design is the ability to create large open spaces while still allowing ample natural light. The candle lighting not only enhances the warmth of the interior but also sets a distinctive atmosphere that differentiates the experience within this space.

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

`
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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