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Fabric Pots and Metal Tubes Create a Biophilic Home Office Environment

Author:
Ulla Staub
Fabric Pots and Metal Tubes Create a Biophilic Home Office Environment
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A thoughtful integration of fabric pots and metal tubes transforms a compact workspace into a biophilic home office that prioritizes both user comfort and plant health.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates continuous planting throughout the workspace for enhanced air quality.
02
Utilizes metal tubes for both structural support and irrigation channels.
03
Features an extendable water tank designed for easy refilling and maintenance.
04
Employs fabric pots that promote optimal root growth and prevent overwatering.
05
Incorporates a low-maintenance hanging plant, Lepismium, to enhance the natural atmosphere.

The Biophilic Microspace presents a thoughtful response to the evolving needs of home offices. As more people work from home, creating a productive environment is increasingly important. This design integrates ergonomic principles with natural elements, fostering a workspace that promotes focus and comfort. The overall approach centers on the idea that a healthy connection to nature can enhance well-being in everyday life.

Framework and Plant Integration

The structure of the Biophilic Microspace is built using metal tubes. These tubes serve two key roles: providing support and allowing for an irrigation system. By incorporating continuous planting, the workspace is transformed into a refreshing green environment. This integration not only adds visual depth but also improves air quality, making the workspace more inviting and beneficial for its users.

Water Management System

At the core of this workspace is a water tank, strategically placed at the bottom of the planting structure. This tank is designed to be extendable, ensuring convenient refilling. An electric pump within the framework distributes water, maintaining the plants effectively. This system reduces the risk of overwatering, creating an ideal moisture level that supports plant health.

Use of Fabric Pots

Fabric pots are an essential feature of the design, offering an effective solution for plant growth. These pots help retain water while allowing for proper drainage and aeration. This prevents issues commonly associated with typical pots, such as root damage. The breathable fabric supports strong root systems and enhances the overall health of the plants while contributing to the workspace's aesthetic.

Interior Design Elements

The interior design incorporates wooden elements, creating a warm atmosphere that complements the greenery. This choice of material aligns with the natural theme, enhancing both comfort and structural strength. Each detail is carefully considered to balance visual appeal with practicality, ensuring that the workspace remains inviting and functional.

A hanging plant, Lepismium, tops the structure, adding a final touch of greenery. This choice symbolizes the design’s commitment to merging functionality with nature, enriching the overall experience of the workspace.

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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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