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Geothermal Observatory Tower with Sunpipes for Enhanced Community Engagement

Authors:
Riccardo Renzi, Elena Ceccarelli, Virginia Vivona, Diego Betti
Geothermal Observatory Tower with Sunpipes for Enhanced Community Engagement
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At the heart of the design lies a geothermal observatory tower, which utilizes sunpipes to optimize natural light while serving as a community hub for exploration and learning.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal heating and cooling systems enhance energy efficiency.
02
Sunpipes provide optimal natural lighting throughout the building.
03
Observatory tower facilitates night-time celestial observations.
04
Flexible spaces accommodate diverse community activities.
05
Green roof design promotes stormwater management.

The design brings together functionality, accessibility, and sustainability in an urban setting. The layout is carefully organized to facilitate movement for both public visitors and private users. The focus on incorporating natural light and creating spaces for community interaction creates an environment that fosters well-being for its occupants.

Access and Circulation

Clearly defined paths guide movement throughout the space. Pedestrian streets and designated parking for cars and buses are thoughtfully arranged to promote safe transit. These access points help reduce traffic and enhance safety. The careful planning makes navigation intuitive, allowing visitors to move freely within the area.

Functional Diversity

The design includes various functional spaces that cater to different activities. There are external courts, an information center, coworking areas, private offices, meeting rooms, and an observatory. This range of functions allows for flexible use of the building, making it adaptable to various needs. Open areas encourage social engagement and bring people together, highlighting the intention to foster a sense of community.

Sustainable Strategies

Sustainability is a key feature of the design. The project incorporates energy-efficient strategies to minimize environmental impact. For instance, specific plans for solar exposure consider seasonal changes, helping to optimize energy use. Geothermal pipes are included for heating and cooling, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. This design thoughtfully addresses energy efficiency while enhancing comfort for users.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials is an important aspect of the design. Sunpipes, made with triple glass and thermal break aluminum, maximize natural light in the space. A green roof is designed to manage stormwater effectively, contributing to better insulation. Prefabricated concrete panels are used for the facade, offering structural efficiency as well as thermal benefits. These materials work together to create a cohesive and functional building.

The observatory serves as a central point for community engagement, inviting visitors to connect with their surroundings and observe celestial events. This focus on interaction with nature enhances the overall experience and emphasizes the project's commitment to creating meaningful spaces within an urban context.

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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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