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Emphasis on Natural Light Through Expansive Glass and Tropical Hardwood in a Coastal Residence

Emphasis on Natural Light Through Expansive Glass and Tropical Hardwood in a Coastal Residence
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With a focus on expansive glass facades and the warmth of tropical hardwood, this coastal residence optimizes natural light while seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces for comfortable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed glass panels.
02
Features a central courtyard that enhances ventilation and visual connectivity.
03
Constructed with local tropical hardwoods to reduce environmental impact.
04
Incorporates shading devices designed to regulate heat without obstructing views.
05
Utilizes thermal mass properties of concrete for passive temperature control.

**Overview**
Located in Chicxulub, Progreso, Yucatán, Mexico, the project in question emphasizes the integration of contemporary architectural design with the surrounding tropical landscape. The design responds to the local climate characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunlight, aiming to optimize daylight within functional and comfortable spaces while maintaining a connection to the natural environment.

**Spatial Strategy**
The spatial layout is intentionally designed to enhance natural light and air flow throughout the interior. A central courtyard serves as a communal gathering space, allowing light to penetrate deeper into the structure. Living areas—including the kitchen, dining room, and living room—are oriented to maximize views and light exposure, while private spaces such as bedrooms are designed to ensure privacy without sacrificing natural light. The pool area, positioned adjacent to the living spaces, contributes to the recreational aspects of the design and enhances the overall ambiance.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
The material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and climate responsiveness. The primary structural components feature concrete, which offers durability and thermal mass for effective indoor temperature regulation. Marble is used for flooring and vertical surfaces, enhancing aesthetic appeal while reflecting light. Extensive use of glass enables expansive views and maximizes natural light admissions, while tropical hardwood finishes add warmth and tactile contrast. Strategies for light manipulation include overhangs and shading devices that regulate light levels and reduce heat gain, thus fostering energy efficiency in alignment with contemporary sustainable architectural practices.

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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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

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