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Embracing Imperfection with Textured Concrete and Natural Wood in a Cultural Exhibition Space

Authors:
Pui Ying Wu, Gary Chan Kwok Leung, Hoi Kiu Ng
Embracing Imperfection with Textured Concrete and Natural Wood in a Cultural Exhibition Space
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Textured concrete surfaces and detailed wood elements merge to create a cultural exhibition space that celebrates the narrative of ruins while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete surfaces are designed to mimic the aesthetic of historical ruins.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while enhancing warmth and texture.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates natural light penetration and dynamic spatial experiences.
04
Natural stone accents integrate the building with its surrounding landscape.
05
Sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting, are incorporated throughout the design.

**Overview**

Located in a context rich with historical remnants, the design project "The Value of Ruins" brings together modern architectural techniques and the essence of ancient structures, particularly influenced by the ruins of Rome. The intent is to create an architectural dialogue that reflects the significance of historical imperfection while incorporating contemporary materiality. The design emphasizes a narrative of decay, resilience, and cultural identity, aiming to inspire a connection between the past and the present.

**Material and Design Expression**

The project employs a variety of materials that underscore its conceptual framework. Concrete serves as the primary material, chosen for its strength and ability to embody natural imperfections over time. This choice reflects the project's overall theme, capturing the aesthetic of ruins through visible flaws and variations in texture. Glass elements are introduced to enhance transparency, fostering visual connections with the exterior environment. Complementary materials such as wood, steel, and natural stone create a dialogue between warmth and industrial strength, enriching the atmosphere within the space.

**Spatial Organization and Flow**

The layout is designed to promote fluid movement and interaction among users. The ground floor features communal areas, including a café and reception zones, organized around naturally flowing paths that guide visitors throughout the space. Upper levels host varied exhibition galleries characterized by diverse ceiling heights and geometries, enhancing the visitor experience with engaging installations and natural light. Circulation is intentionally planned with ramps and staircases that facilitate exploration, while strategically placed openings maximize daylight, contributing to a dynamic and inviting interior environment.

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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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