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Landscaped Roof of Fair-Faced Concrete Elevates Visitor Experience Amid Volcanic Terrain

Authors:
Jiajun Tang, Bo Zhang, Tianqi Dong, Botao Zhang
Landscaped Roof of Fair-Faced Concrete Elevates Visitor Experience Amid Volcanic Terrain
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A flake-shaped roof adorned with integrated green spaces defines this structure, harmonizing with the surrounding volcanic landscape while serving as a multifunctional exhibition space and offices.
5 key facts about this project
01
A flake-shaped roof accommodates diverse plant life and water features.
02
The design incorporates an ecological green space as a transition zone.
03
The building aligns along an east-west axis for optimal volcanic views.
04
Fair-faced concrete is the sole material used for the structure.
05
Height reaches 10.5 meters, with a total area of 2,238 square meters.

The Hill of Aurora is a project that embodies the idea of a volcanic formation, blending into its natural surroundings to create a structure that appears to rise directly from the land. Located in a landscape shaped by volcanic activity, it serves as both an exhibition space and offices for visitors and staff. The design features a mountain-like shape, highlighted by curves that reflect the organic patterns found in nature.

Design Concept

The inspiration for The Hill of Aurora comes from the vision of a volcanic body, resulting in a form that integrates with the terrain rather than dominating it. The northern section of the site is designated as a parking area, separated from the building by an ecological green space. This design choice enhances the experience for visitors as they approach the structure through a landscaped pathway, which creates a smooth transition into the built environment.

Roof Design

One of the most notable aspects of the design is the flake-shaped roof. This feature not only draws the eye but also encourages exploration. The roof symbolizes the concept of Aurora and serves a practical purpose by offering access to elevated views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can ascend the steps leading to the roof, where they encounter a three-dimensional experience enriched by a variety of plants and water elements, adding depth to the overall design.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the building is organized with clear divisions among different areas, arranged along an east-west axis. This layout optimizes views of the nearby volcano and ensures that exhibition spaces and office areas receive natural light. The design blurs the boundary between indoors and outdoors, creating a connection to the landscape. With a total area of 2,238 square meters and a height of 10.5 meters, the two-story structure presents an engaging presence within its surroundings.

Materials and Structure

The primary construction material used is fair-faced concrete, which balances durability with a natural appearance. This choice reinforces the design’s connection to the environment. The vertical walls and the distinctive roof shape emphasize the structural concept while maintaining harmony with the natural elements around it. This material selection supports the architectural vision while also reflecting the cultural context of the region.

The roof, highlighted by carefully positioned lighting, takes on a new character at night. It becomes a gentle beacon that interacts with the landscape, mirroring the stars above and enhancing the overall experience of the environment.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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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