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Natural Light-Infused Spaces with Concrete and Copper Accents for Artistic Collaboration

Authors:
Josh Rigelsford, Dellanie Byron, Benjamin Khor, Stephanie Wyant
Natural Light-Infused Spaces with Concrete and Copper Accents for Artistic Collaboration
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Utilizing a central atrium to enhance natural light, the design integrates raw concrete and warm copper accents to create versatile spaces for artistic collaboration in Bangkok.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a central atrium to maximize natural light penetration throughout the interior.
02
Incorporates durable concrete as a primary structural material paired with warm copper accents.
03
Features flexible configurations to adapt to various artistic activities and collaborations.
04
Employs locally sourced materials to reduce ecological impact and connect with the regional context.
05
Includes dynamic circulation paths inspired by natural cave formations, encouraging exploration.

**Overview**

Located in Bangkok, Thailand, the design reflects the city's vibrant culture and historical depth, emphasizing creativity and exploration. Drawing inspiration from natural cave formations, the project seeks to symbolize shelter and curiosity, embodying the resilience of the community while addressing the evolving identity of urban spaces.

**Spatial Configuration and Interaction**

The multi-level design promotes interaction and community engagement through a carefully considered layout. It features distinct public and private areas, facilitating both communal activities and individual creative pursuits. An atrium at the center serves as a pivotal element, enhancing the flow of natural light and air, while dynamic staircases enhance movement and exploration within the structure, mirroring the organic pathways of cave systems.

**Material Selection and Environmental Integration**

The palette employs concrete for structural integrity, glass to foster transparency and light, and copper to introduce warmth and historical resonance. This material combination not only enriches the aesthetic but also contributes to the building’s sustainability and energy efficiency. The strategic placement of large openings ensures abundant natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere conducive to artistic expression and collaboration, while the overall design responds to the cultural context of the site, bridging historical narratives with contemporary needs.

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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?

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