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Fractal Facade and Waterway Soundscape in a WPC Retreat

Authors:
Jun Seo Lee, Eunchae An, Hwang Ji Eun, Jiyeon Kang
Fractal Facade and Waterway Soundscape in a WPC Retreat
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A fractal facade and integrated waterway soundscape define a WPC cabin designed as a meditative retreat, effectively merging nature with urban life in Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Facilitates natural meditation through soundscapes created by rainwater.
02
Fully modular design allows for rapid installation and mobility.
03
Fractal-patterned facade enhances light diffusion while ensuring privacy.
04
Uses recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.
05
Seating module promotes personal engagement and flexibility within the space.

The design creates a meditative space right in the heart of Tokyo. It focuses on reducing the pressures of urban life while encouraging a connection to nature. The aim is to provide an environment where personal reflection and relaxation can occur naturally. This project serves as a refuge, inviting users to immerse themselves in a peaceful setting that promotes well-being.

Facade Design and Materiality

The primary features include both outer and inner facade modules made from White Wood Plastic Composites (WPC). This material choice is significant; it offers strength and a visual consistency that fits well within the urban surroundings. The outer facade stick module connects the exterior and interior, allowing for an easy transition while preserving privacy and welcoming natural light.

Waterway Integration

An important aspect of the design is the bottom mass module, which guides rainwater through a defined waterway. This feature not only adds a visual element but also creates soothing sounds as rainwater flows over the polycarbonate film. The gentle sound of water reinforces the relationship between the structure and the natural environment, making the space more serene.

Natural Light and Spatial Experience

Natural light significantly shapes the experience inside the cabin. The polycarbonate film has properties that enhance daylight, ensuring that the interior is bright and inviting. This design choice reduces the need for artificial lighting, aligning with sustainable practices. The spaciousness and light draw occupants into a calm atmosphere, highlighting the benefits of connecting with nature.

Modularity and Sustainability

A modular approach characterizes the design, making both installation and transportation efficient. The foldable top hemisphere module supports quick setup and breakdown, proving practical for various contexts. In addition, the use of recycled materials reflects a commitment to sustainability, aiming to lower waste and lessen the overall environmental impact.

The design culminates in a seating module that allows occupants to choose how they interact with the space. This flexibility encourages personal engagement and comfort within the cabin. Interactions among sound, light, and water craft an environment that promotes tranquility and introspection, encapsulating the essence of the overall concept.

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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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