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Curved Structure with Solar-Powered Glass and Sustainable Wood Integration in a Community Hub

Authors:
Julia Wiśniewska, Jakub Osowski
Curved Structure with Solar-Powered Glass and Sustainable Wood Integration in a Community Hub
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Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and expansive glass that optimize natural light, the community hub embodies sustainable design principles while fostering social interaction through its innovative spiral layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with renewable cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to improve durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates natural ventilation throughout the space.
04
Surrounding gardens serve as both educational tools and sources of local produce.
05
Solar panels integrated into the roof provide energy sustainability for the community hub.

The Spiral Center is a community-oriented architectural project located within the Spiral Ecological Village, designed to promote social interaction and sustainability. The architectural concept revolves around a spiral layout that facilitates movement while creating a sense of unity among its users. The building functions as a communal hub, housing meeting rooms, educational spaces, and areas for physical activities, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding agricultural landscape.

Sustainable Design Principles
This project features a design that prioritizes sustainability through various strategies. The use of renewable materials such as wood and stone lays a strong foundation both structurally and aesthetically. The incorporation of solar panels atop the building emphasizes the commitment to renewable energy, allowing for efficient energy usage. Rainwater collection systems and passive cooling techniques enhance the building's environmental performance, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The spiral configuration not only holds symbolic significance but also promotes natural ventilation and light access throughout the center.

Integration with Nature
A key aspect of the Spiral Center is its relationship with the landscape. Surrounded by community gardens and agricultural areas, the architecture integrates outdoor spaces that serve educational purposes while promoting local biodiversity. The careful placement of windows and open areas ensures natural light permeates the interior, fostering a connection between the inner and outer environments. The green roofs and garden spaces contribute to cooling and aesthetic value, blending architecture with nature seamlessly.

Community-Centric Approach
The architectural design emphasizes inclusivity and participation among community members. Spaces within the center are meticulously arranged to encourage collaboration and interaction. Flexible areas accommodate various functions, supporting gatherings, workshops, and cultural events. The circular design inherently invites all users to feel at ease, promoting a welcoming atmosphere that strengthens communal bonds.

For a more in-depth understanding of this project, consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas associated with The Spiral Center, which illustrate its thoughtful approach to communal architecture and sustainability.

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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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