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Circular Patio Incorporating Dukta Wood with Flexible Living Spaces

Authors:
Yujia Zhan, Shiyu Wang
Circular Patio Incorporating Dukta Wood with Flexible Living Spaces
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A circular patio structure constructed with flexible Dukta wood accommodates adaptable living spaces, enhancing communal interaction and promoting sustainable rainwater management for a residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
A circular patio serves as the focal point for communal activities.
02
The living area features a foldable bed that maximizes space efficiency.
03
Curved doors enable flexible transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Rainwater management systems are integrated into the design for sustainability.
05
Dukta wood allows for unique shaping opportunities in construction.

Engranpatio offers a unique approach to design that combines functionality with sustainability. Located in a setting that emphasizes community and interaction, the layout features a circular patio at its center, surrounded by essential living spaces such as the kitchen, toilet, and living room. The design encourages a connection between indoor and outdoor areas, enhancing the living experience for residents.

Design Layout

At the heart of the house is the circular patio, which creates a communal space that promotes natural light and airflow throughout the home. The living room and bedroom are combined into a multifunctional area, allowing the bed to fold away into a sofa during the day. This clever arrangement illustrates modern design principles that emphasize adaptability and multifunctionality.

Sustainable Features

One important aspect of Engranpatio is its commitment to sustainability. The roofs of the kitchen and bathroom are slightly sloped, directing rainwater toward a partition wall. This wall is designed to collect rainwater and channel it into a storage tank. By treating grey water, the system can be used for irrigation, showcasing thoughtful resource management.

Natural Ventilation

Natural ventilation plays a key role in keeping the interior comfortable. A sliding window at the top of the circular patio serves as a central air outlet. When opened, it allows fresh air to circulate throughout the living spaces, contributing to a pleasant indoor environment. Additionally, the inclusion of plants along pathways enriches the space and promotes a healthier atmosphere indoors.

Material Utilization

Dukta Flexible Wood (JANUS-TEX) is an important material used in the construction. This 4/4 mm, 3-layer spruce is known for its flexibility. It allows for creative design solutions, making it easy to shape according to the needs of the space. This flexibility supports the overall design goal of adaptability.

Along with functional spaces, the integration of plants creates opportunities for residents to engage with nature, enhancing both the visual appeal and air quality inside the home.

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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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