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Cast Concrete and Transparent Glass Form a Multi-Faith Sanctuary Emphasizing Community Interaction

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Cast Concrete and Transparent Glass Form a Multi-Faith Sanctuary Emphasizing Community Interaction
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A fusion of cast concrete and expansive glass creates a serene environment where distinct religious practices converge, facilitating community engagement and reflective worship.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a combination of cast concrete and glass to enhance natural lighting.
02
Features distinct zones for individual faith practices while maintaining a connected layout.
03
Incorporates reflective water elements to promote tranquility and contemplation.
04
Design emphasizes sensory experiences through varied materials and textures.
05
Encourages interfaith dialogue through adaptable shared community spaces.

### Overview

"The Divine Order" is a multi-faith architectural complex designed by Italo Calvino, situated in an urban context that emphasizes inclusivity and communal interaction. The design integrates elements of both historical and contemporary religious architecture, aiming to create environments conducive to worship and dialogue across various faiths. By fostering a sense of community while honoring distinct religious practices, the project serves as a prototype for contemporary sacred architecture.

### Spatial Configuration and User Engagement

The configuration of spaces within the complex is strategically designed to balance communal gatherings with opportunities for personal reflection. Interconnected yet distinct areas facilitate a variety of worship practices while allowing for both active participation and solitude. This spatial organization reflects the essence of a pilgrimage, guiding visitors through a thoughtfully arranged sequence of corridors that promote contemplation and connection to the sacred. Each zone is tailored to accommodate the unique requirements of its faith group, fostering interfaith dialogue while catering to individual spiritual expressions.

### Materiality and Light

Material selection plays a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere of the building. Cast concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing both strength and a solemn aesthetic. The integration of glass in skylights and apertures enhances natural illumination, establishing a vital connection between interior spaces and the outside environment. Wood is incorporated in furnishings, introducing warmth and texture to counterbalance the rigidity of concrete. Additionally, natural stone is used for flooring and feature walls, contributing to the tactile experience while embodying the permanence associated with sacred spaces. The strategic use of light enhances the spiritual ambiance, with dynamic interactions between light and shadow creating a contemplative environment throughout the day.

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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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