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Harmonic Living Space with Straw and Reed Elements

Authors:
Kiran Kc, Aarati Baral
Harmonic Living Space with Straw and Reed Elements
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Constructed with traditional straw and reeds, the residence offers a harmonious living space that fosters creativity and connection to the tranquil lakeside landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced straw and reeds.
02
Features a symmetrical layout that accommodates two artist families.
03
Integrates seamlessly with the lakeside landscape.
04
Designed to foster both individual creativity and communal engagement.
05
Includes a floating wooden deck that enhances the indoor-outdoor connection.

The artist's residence is located along the tranquil lakeside of Latvia and serves as a refuge for creativity and artistic practice. The design is heavily influenced by the concept of "himmeli," a traditional ornament from the Baltic region that signifies order, harmony, and unity. This approach emphasizes the connection between different elements of the structure, creating an environment that supports both living and working for artists.

Spatial Organization

The residence consists of two symmetrical units, specifically designed for two artist families. Each unit offers both private areas and shared spaces, allowing for personal expression while encouraging collaboration. This thoughtful arrangement promotes interaction without sacrificing solitude, vital for the artistic process.

Connection to Nature

A key feature of the design is the link to the surrounding landscape. The architecture invites the outside in, allowing natural light and views of the lake to enhance the indoor environment. This relationship with nature enriches the living experience, making it a fundamental aspect of daily life in the residence.

Materiality

Traditional materials are a notable aspect of the design, specifically straw and reeds. These materials reflect the cultural background of the area and serve practical functions in construction. They add an organic touch to the structure, emphasizing the bond between the building and its natural setting while adhering to sustainable practices.

Intentional Sanctuary

The residence is crafted as a place of solace, where living and creating coexist harmoniously. The design creates a clear boundary from the distractions of modern life, enhancing focus and creativity. This careful planning shapes an environment filled with inspiration.

One striking detail is the floating wooden deck that encircles the units, providing a transitional space that blends the indoors with the outdoors, facilitating a deeper connection with the landscape and enriching the daily experience of the residents.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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