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Elevated Ice Block Installation Amidst Natural Greenery

Authors:
Dragos Pirvan, Mihai Pirvan
Elevated Ice Block Installation Amidst Natural Greenery
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An ice block-inspired sculptural installation rises above a lush garden, creating a sustainable community hub that merges natural elements with multifunctional spaces for wellness and recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design draws inspiration from the shape of an egg, symbolizing life and renewal.
02
The central garden employs a climate-responsive irrigation system that recycles water efficiently.
03
A sculptural ice block installation serves as a visually striking partition and climate awareness statement.
04
Vegetation choices promote biodiversity while minimizing maintenance requirements.
05
Photovoltaic cells integrated into the structure contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Biotopia aims to blend built environments with the natural world in an innovative way. Set in a landscape rich with greenery, the design centers around a vibrant garden that acts as the focal point of the overall layout. Surrounding this garden, a variety of facilities such as a lobby, reception area, restaurant, bar, accommodation, multimedia room, yoga garden, and spa are organized to enhance accessibility and interactions among users. The approach emphasizes sustainability and ecological balance, creating spaces that are environmentally friendly.

Form and Function

The design takes inspiration from the shape of an egg, which symbolizes life and renewal. This rounded form allows natural light to enter from several angles, enriching the interior experience. The egg shape serves as a protective barrier while offering a strong visual link between human life and the surrounding ecology.

Garden and Landscaping

At the heart of the design, the garden is filled with low-rise vegetation, shrubs, and a selection of trees, which could include fruit-bearing and decorative varieties. This garden plays an essential role in maximizing exposure to sunlight, promoting a lively ecosystem within the project. The integration of these natural elements creates a calming atmosphere while significantly reducing the need for irrigation.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a key element throughout the design. An irrigation system inspired by natural plant mechanisms optimizes water use, ensuring that various plant life can thrive with minimal resources. There is a focus on creating a self-sustaining water recycling system where the initial irrigation water circulates, reinforcing the commitment to environmental responsibility. The inclusion of photovoltaic cells also contributes to energy efficiency, aligning with the project’s ecological goals.

Artistic Expression

Among the notable features is a sculptural installation that resembles an ice block suspended over a furnace. This striking piece acts as both a visual marker and a reminder of climate change, prompting viewers to reflect on the relationship between human actions and the environment. It serves to define spaces within the building while engaging users in discussions on sustainability and ecological awareness.

In the central garden, a blend of low-rise plant species creates an inviting space for both relaxation and social interaction. This thoughtfully designed area emphasizes a deep connection between architecture and nature, enhancing the overall environment while offering moments of tranquility.

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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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