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Corten Steel and Timber Structure Embracing Nature in a Spiraled Community Hub

Authors:
Alessandra Pederneschi, Davide Ripamonti, Elisabetta Valsecchi
Corten Steel and Timber Structure Embracing Nature in a Spiraled Community Hub
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A half-moon shaped entrance and central tree within a spiraled layout create a unique community hub constructed with locally sourced timber and corten steel, promoting sustainability and connection while serving as an event space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central tree enhances natural ventilation within the building.
02
Spiral design promotes fluid movement and social interaction.
03
Half-moon shaped entrance creates a welcoming gesture to visitors.
04
Materials include local timber and corten steel for resilience and sustainability.
05
Concentric paths connect various areas of the Spirala Ecological Village.

The design draws inspiration from the nautilus shell, utilizing a spiral form that represents life and growth. Located within the Spirala Ecological Village, the structure is arranged to curl around an internal square. At the heart of this square is a tree, which serves as a focal point in the event space. This thoughtful arrangement emphasizes a strong connection to nature while exploring themes of rebirth and community.

Design Concept

The layout promotes a sense of fluidity, creating a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor areas. Paths lead through different sections of the village, with narrower, concentric routes branching out from the center. This organization facilitates movement throughout the site and enhances visual interest, encouraging people to engage with both built and natural elements.

Community Interaction

A central aspect of the design is the importance of social connections. The open spaces allow for interaction among residents, promoting communal experiences. The flow of the structure moves outward from the center, symbolizing personal journeys within the community while building a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Environmental Integration

Natural ventilation strategies play a key role in the design, with open spaces that provide airflow and natural light. The central tree contributes to this system, helping to maintain thermal comfort and reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling. This integration of natural elements creates a sustainable and welcoming indoor environment.

Materiality

Materials chosen for the project include local timber, eucalyptus wood, fir wood, and corten steel. Using local materials helps to decrease environmental impact and ensures a connection to the surrounding context. Corten steel, with its weathered appearance, complements the design's focus on resilience and sustainability.

The entrance features a half-moon shaped square that welcomes visitors and reflects the themes of transformation and community. This design detail fosters an inviting atmosphere while linking the space to a larger narrative of connection and shared experiences.

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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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