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Elevated Workshop Surrounded by Natural Reed and Wood Houses

Authors:
Miruna-liana Alexandru, Diana Oancea
Elevated Workshop Surrounded by Natural Reed and Wood Houses
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With a painter's workshop elevated above a series of reed and wood houses designed for communal living, the project offers a distinctive spatial arrangement that prioritizes both connection to the landscape and functional creativity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated workshop enhances functional creativity within the community.
02
Reed and wood materials promote sustainability and local sourcing.
03
Double-height common space fosters interaction and engagement.
04
Bedrooms strategically oriented for optimal lake views.
05
Gradual transitions connect intimate courtyards with natural surroundings.

The Lake View House project is a residential development located by a scenic lake. It features five distinct housing units, all designed to take advantage of the beautiful views. The focus is on creating spaces that not only provide shelter but also promote a sense of community among the residents. The design is inspired by previous structures on the site, particularly an old house and barn, which informs the overall concept of repeatable housing forms. These forms create shared outdoor spaces that encourage social interaction.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the project is well thought out, enhancing both functionality and connection among the houses. Each unit has been placed with care, ensuring bedrooms face the lake for optimal views. Living rooms are designed with higher ceilings to draw attention to the natural beauty surrounding the site. The common area stands out with its double-height design, which invites social engagement and interaction. This arrangement allows all residents to enjoy the vistas, fostering a connection with the environment.

Distinctive Workshop

A key feature of the design is the painter's workshop, which is positioned at a different height than the residential units. This elevation not only highlights the workshop's purpose but also creates interesting spatial dynamics within the complex. It encourages movement toward this central working space, making it a place for creativity and collaboration among residents. The workshop serves as a hub that enhances the living experience for the community.

Material Selection

Sustainability is an important aspect of the project, evident in the choice of materials. Reed and wood are used for the walls and roofs. These materials are chosen for their local availability and beneficial properties, such as insulation against heat and sound. The emphasis on sustainability includes considerations for easy deconstruction and the potential for reuse, which contributes to reducing environmental impact. This approach enhances the durability of the homes while aligning with modern building practices.

Ventilation and Energy Efficiency

Ventilation has been carefully considered in the design, with the layout promoting natural airflow and ample natural light. The inclusion of photovoltaic panels demonstrates a commitment to renewable energy, addressing the need for sustainable energy solutions in contemporary living. This focus on energy efficiency, together with the project's aesthetic choices, creates a comfortable living environment that respects nature.

A noteworthy design detail is how the spaces connect through gradual transitions, leading residents through a series of inviting courtyards. These courtyards provide peaceful spots for relaxation, blending the built environment with the surrounding landscape.

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

`
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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