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Concrete Silos and a Garden of Imagination in a Family Retreat

Authors:
Marcos Panayides, Dionysios Kakoulis
Concrete Silos and a Garden of Imagination in a Family Retreat
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The combination of concrete silos and a thoughtfully designed garden creates a distinctive backdrop for a lake house that serves as a retreat for two families, fostering artistic expression and communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design includes two concrete silos that serve as functional and visual anchors within the layout.
02
A central Atelier connects living spaces, promoting collaboration and artistic interaction among families.
03
Natural light is maximized through strategic skylights and large openings facing the lake and forest.
04
The "Garden of Imagination" serves as a unique interface between the indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Local materials, such as wood and stone, reinforce sustainability and regional specificity in the construction.

The "NORTH VIEW" project is a lake house designed for two families, creating a place for them to gather and engage in artistic practices. Located between a calm lake and a lush forest, the design focuses on the connection between the built environment, nature, and the act of creating art. The aim is to provide a space that inspires creativity and fosters family interaction while highlighting the themes of change and flow.

Architectural Layout

The layout features a central Atelier that connects two guesthouses, forming a unified structure. This arrangement includes three main zones: private areas, such as bedrooms, and shared spaces like the kitchen and living room. The design considers the need for privacy while promoting social experiences among family members, emphasizing the significance of togetherness during their stay.

Silo Integration

Central to the design are two silos, positioned around a well. These structures play a crucial role in organizing the space. They act as dividers, regulating how common and private areas relate to each other. By creating visual boundaries, the silos enhance the experience of moving through the house. Inside the silo area, the “Garden of Imagination” functions as a creative link between indoor and outdoor elements, inviting residents to explore their environment.

Material Selection

Choosing the right materials is important for the overall design and its connection to nature. The silos are made from concrete, providing a sturdy and low-maintenance structure. Local wood is used for the walls and roofs, supporting sustainable practices and reflecting the local context. Stone forms the flooring, adding texture and warmth to the interior, while marble is used in the areas around the silos. This choice of material enhances the light in the space and creates a connection to the surroundings.

Design Details

The Atelier is designed with multiple openings that offer views of the lake and forest, allowing natural light to fill the space. Skylights and well-placed windows promote a bright and inviting atmosphere. This design choice not only connects the inside of the house with the outside but also supports the central idea of integrating art with nature. By creating such visual connections, the spaces encourage occupants to engage with both their surroundings and their creative work.

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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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