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Elevated Living with a Central Water Tower and Lightweight Structure

Authors:
Andy Au, Luoyi Chen
Elevated Living with a Central Water Tower and Lightweight Structure
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A central water tower encases a spiral staircase in this modular house, promoting air circulation and elevated living while effectively responding to tropical climate conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
A spiral staircase is housed within a central water cooling tower for enhanced air circulation.
02
The modular design allows for easy adaptation to various rural settings.
03
Elevated living spaces provide increased safety and environmental oversight.
04
Dedicated focus on lightweight materials ensures structural integrity with minimal impact.
05
The integration of climate-responsive features enhances comfort across tropical environments.

The Dandelion Modular House 2022 showcases an innovative approach to modern living through the use of modular design. Located in a setting that demands flexibility, the residence addresses the relationship between its elements and the spaces they create. The concept focuses on the idea of interdependence while emphasizing functionality and connection with the environment, resulting in a practical and efficient housing solution.

Central Design Element

A key feature of the Dandelion Modular House is the central stairwell, which acts as the heart of the home. This space supports air circulation, improving indoor air quality and promoting a healthier living environment. The design also incorporates a spiral staircase situated within a water cooling tower. This choice harmonizes practicality and visual appeal, enhancing the home's functionality.

Adaptation to Climate

The house anticipates various climate conditions, including those typical of rainforest, tropical savanna, and tropical monsoon environments. By considering these climatic factors, the design ensures resilience and comfort throughout all seasons. This adaptability is particularly important in rural areas, where changes in weather can have significant impacts on daily life.

Modularity and Elevated Living

The modular and stackable design allows the Dandelion Modular House to adapt to its surroundings efficiently. This elevated living model reduces exposure to ground-level risks, improving safety. It also offers occupants the benefit of greater visibility over their surroundings, akin to the security provided by treehouses while maintaining a sense of refuge and comfort.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is woven into the design through the reuse of materials, reflecting a commitment to ecological responsibility. Though specific materials are not disclosed, the emphasis on lightweight building elements suggests a choice aimed at ensuring structural stability without negatively impacting the environment.

The project culminates in the thoughtful arrangement of its design elements. This creates a cohesive space that fosters connection and personal experiences, highlighting a refined engagement with contemporary requirements for living.

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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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