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Curvilinear Design Featuring Reed Canopy and Laminated Wood for Community Engagement

Authors:
Arseny Lebedev, Daria Zhiguleva, Reinis Rudzite
Curvilinear Design Featuring Reed Canopy and Laminated Wood for Community Engagement
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The integration of a reed canopy with laminated wood structures creates a seamless connection between nature and community functions, providing versatile spaces for artistic collaboration amidst a rich cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building integrates a reed canopy that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.
02
It features curvilinear rooflines that reflect the surrounding landscape.
03
Laminated wood construction enhances structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
04
Art studios are designed with flexible configurations to accommodate various creative activities.
05
The project incorporates passive energy solutions to optimize environmental efficiency.

The OMULI project reinterprets traditional reed architecture through modern design principles, situated in Latvia's scenic landscape. This architectural endeavor focuses on creating a multifaceted space that accommodates living, artistic activities, and community engagement. The project emphasizes sustainable practices and materials while integrating local culture into its design.

The building features a dynamic form accentuated by curvilinear rooflines, which mimic the natural landscape. This design approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also invites an exploration of space through its organic shapes. The use of a 'reed canopy' serves as a significant structural element, reflecting historical architectural practices while providing shade and shelter for public activities. The layout incorporates communal areas, transforming the building into a vibrant cultural hub.

Integration of Local Materials
A critical aspect of the OMULI project is its commitment to utilizing locally sourced materials. Laminated wood serves as the primary structural component, offering strength while aligning with sustainable practices. The use of reeds is central to the design, utilized not only for their historical significance but also for their insulating properties and eco-friendly characteristics. Plank facades provide texture and rhythm to the exterior surface, while reconstructed brick is incorporated to preserve architectural heritage. Large panes of glass enhance natural light flow and strengthen the connection between interior spaces and the surrounding environment.

Flexible Space Design
The interior layout is organized to facilitate a variety of functions, catering to both private living and public engagement. The inclusion of workshops and artists' studios promotes collaboration and creativity, allowing various forms of artistic expression to flourish. Strategic placement of communal spaces, such as performance areas and an outdoor café, encourages interaction among users and fosters a sense of community. The architectural design also incorporates passive energy solutions, ensuring efficient climate management within the building.

This project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of historical context and modern architectural strategies. It represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture that values local culture and environmental stewardship. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the OMULI project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will provide further insight into its unique architectural ideas and concepts.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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