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Fritted Glass and Metal Structure Integrating Native Landscaping for Community Engagement

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Fritted Glass and Metal Structure Integrating Native Landscaping for Community Engagement
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Fritted glass panels integrate with a durable metal framework to create a visually dynamic observation tower that promotes community engagement and education in South Dakota's natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fritted glass facade reduces glare while allowing natural light to illuminate interior spaces.
02
The structure incorporates solar panels to enhance sustainability and reduce energy consumption.
03
Observation decks are designed at multiple heights for varied panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Native landscaping surrounds the tower, promoting ecological harmony and local biodiversity.
05
Interactive educational exhibits focus on regional history and natural ecosystems for visitor engagement.

### Project Overview

The Highway 14 Tower is proposed for the Silver Lake and Big Slough area in South Dakota, focused on enhancing visitor engagement and promoting local tourism. The design responds to the surrounding landscape, providing an interactive space for observation and contemplation. It aims to serve as a venue that integrates educational opportunities with immersion in the region's natural environment.

### Spatial Composition and Functionality

The tower features a height of 250 feet and incorporates multiple levels, each serving distinct purposes. An observation deck offers panoramic views, while a dedicated museum level showcases local history and cultural significance. Plazas designed for relaxation and interaction with nature are integrated throughout the structure. Multiple observation decks are strategically positioned to maximize visual access and enhance the user experience, with circulation paths that facilitate easy access via trams, stairs, and elevators.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design utilizes a range of materials to enhance both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The exterior skin and framework consist of metal, providing structural integrity while contributing to a modern look. Fritted glass allows natural light into the interior spaces while minimizing glare. The utilization of concrete ensures durability and stability at the base of the structure. Additionally, solar panels are incorporated into the design to promote eco-friendliness and offset operational costs. Landscape elements featuring native plants align the project with its environmental context, reinforcing a connection to the surrounding ecosystem.

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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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