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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facade Creating Dynamic Light Play in a Cultural Hub

Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facade Creating Dynamic Light Play in a Cultural Hub
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A dynamic interplay of charred wooden shingles and a transparent facade invites natural light into a versatile cultural hub designed to foster community engagement through the performing arts and cinema.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic facade utilizes transparent and translucent materials to enhance natural lighting throughout the interior.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural stability and sustainability.
04
Bent A-frame design maximizes vertical space while facilitating acoustics.
05
Community spaces are strategically positioned to encourage collaboration among artists and audiences.

## Centre of Performing Arts (COPA) Overview

The Centre of Performing Arts (COPA) serves as a cultural hub tailored for cinema and performing arts, designed to enhance accessibility and promote artistic expression. Located within a dynamic urban environment, the architectural intent is to create an inviting space that encourages social interaction and community engagement through its innovative spatial organization and circulation. The structure is envisioned to integrate with its surroundings while standing out as a focal point for cultural activities.

### Spatial Strategy

The design of COPA emphasizes a well-defined spatial organization that accommodates various functions, including cinema, performing arts, food and beverage outlets, and operational facilities. The circulation strategy features interconnected levels, facilitating a vertical journey through the building. This approach promotes an interactive experience as visitors navigate through distinct yet interconnected zones that cater to diverse audience needs. The careful arrangement of spaces is intended to guide users fluidly through the center's offerings, establishing a sense of connectivity and engagement.

### Material Selection

The materiality of COPA plays a crucial role in achieving its architectural vision. The facade, characterized by a vibrant array of modular elements, utilizes a combination of transparent and translucent materials that allow natural light to filter in while creating dynamic visual effects. This thoughtful facade design enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal and integrates functionality with artistic expression. Anticipated structural materials, such as steel and concrete, contribute to the durability and stability of the center, ensuring that the architecture remains resilient while embodying an innovative design ethos.

Details regarding sustainable practices are also considered, with the design incorporating natural light and the potential use of eco-friendly materials, reflecting an awareness of environmental impact throughout the building’s lifecycle. The overall execution of these elements positions COPA as a significant addition to the urban landscape, aimed at fostering community interaction and cultural appreciation.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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