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Curvilinear Wooden Structure with Fabric Shading for Community Engagement

Author:
Mirna Al Alayli
Curvilinear Wooden Structure with Fabric Shading for Community Engagement
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A series of curvilinear wooden structures with integrated fabric shading elements create an inviting space for community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms mimic the silhouette of flamingos, enhancing visual appeal.
02
Modular shade units can be easily transported and rearranged on-site.
03
The design features a wooden hyperboloid structure for structural efficiency.
04
An observation deck provides panoramic views, promoting interaction with the landscape.
05
Sustainable materials are chosen to reduce environmental impact and support durability.

"Flock of Flamingos" is designed to foster social interaction and community involvement. The setting encourages engagement among visitors, creating spaces that blend well with the surrounding environment. Inspired by the behavior and forms of flamingos, the design concept emphasizes adaptability, transparency, and a strong connection to nature. The intention is to create an open and inviting atmosphere that resonates with users while being respectful of the context.

Design Concept

The design draws heavily from the social traits of flamingos, reflected in the use of curvilinear lines that mimic their silhouettes. This flowing design promotes ease of movement and allows people to transition smoothly between different areas of the building. Panoramic views are woven throughout the structure, enhancing the experience and inviting visitors to interact with the landscape around them.

Structural Elements

The building features lightweight shade units that vary in size, orientation, and height. These units are designed for easy transport and assembly, ensuring flexibility in their arrangement. This modular approach allows the design to adapt to varying needs while maintaining a consistent visual appearance.

Materiality and Construction

The main structure is constructed using a wooden hyperboloid design, showcasing the potential of timber in architecture. In addition, the shade units consist of a wooden frame with a fabric cover, providing necessary shading without compromising the overall aesthetics. This choice of materials aligns with the project’s focus on sustainability and environmental awareness.

Circulation and Integration

A ramp made from beams and columns facilitates circulation throughout the space. This pathway connects various essential areas, such as an observation deck that offers expansive views, as well as communal spaces like the cafeteria and information center. Visitors are encouraged to explore, whether they are taking in the scenery or mingling in shared spaces.

The thoughtful design integrates both functional and social aspects, creating a built environment that respects its surroundings while promoting interaction among visitors. A vantage point at the observation deck allows for a deeper connection with the landscape, offering a unique perspective to those who take the time to engage with the space.

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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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