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Circular Form with Radial Fins Crafted from Glass and Concrete at Elevated Viewpoint

Circular Form with Radial Fins Crafted from Glass and Concrete at Elevated Viewpoint
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Radial fins of glass and concrete enhance the circular form of an elevated observation tower, creating a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape while serving as a communal viewpoint for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Radial fins enhance natural light penetration while providing shade for the interior space.
02
The tower’s circular geometry promotes a seamless flow of movement for visitors.
03
Site-specific drainage solutions are integrated into the concrete structure to manage runoff effectively.
04
An accessible spiraling staircase encourages exploration across multiple levels of the tower.
05
Frosted glass elements blend functionality with an aesthetic connection to the surrounding landscape.

## Overview

The Legendary Highway 14 Tower is located north of the Big Slough, near De Smet. The design aims to incorporate architectural innovation with an emphasis on environmental sensitivity, facilitating a connection between the built structure and the surrounding natural landscape. The project explores concepts of purity and user experience while ensuring harmony with the ecological context.

### Form and Spatial Strategy

The tower features a striking elongated structure characterized by circular platforms and radial fins. These elements not only contribute to the visual identity of the building but also enhance its functional dynamics by maximizing natural light penetration while minimizing direct sunlight exposure. The strategic orientation and placement of the tower allow for optimal daylight access, while the design fosters a seamless integration with existing pathways that encourage visitor engagement with the natural environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection for the tower emphasizes a commitment to transparency and sustainability. Frosted and clear glass is employed to create an inviting interior environment that resonates with the surrounding ecosystem. The construction materials include concrete, glass, steel, and gravel, ensuring durability and effective drainage. Additionally, the adoption of modular design techniques enhances construction efficiency and sustainability, while passive design strategies, such as evaporation cooling through the steel fins, support energy efficiency. Detailed technical considerations, including tension breaks and targeted glazing layouts, further reflect a comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility in the architectural details.

Overall, the design and construction of the Legendary Highway 14 Tower exemplify a thoughtful balance of aesthetics, functionality, and ecological integration.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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

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