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Natural Light Play in a Lightweight Concrete Residence with Macro-Zones

Author:
Emanuela Adduci
Natural Light Play in a Lightweight Concrete Residence with Macro-Zones
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A lightweight concrete residence in Abisko maximizes natural light through a thoughtful arrangement of macro-zones, balancing vibrant living spaces with tranquil sleeping areas for a harmonious living experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Macro-zones define distinct living and sleeping areas, enhancing functionality.
02
Strategic window placements optimize natural light penetration throughout the day.
03
Constructed using lightweight concrete for improved energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
The design reflects the concept of "yin" and "yang," balancing light and dark spaces.
05
Located in Abisko, a region known for its long hours of sunlight and pristine air quality.

"The Other Side" is a residence designed for two people, located in Abisko, northern Sweden. This area is recognized for its clean environment and long hours of sunlight, making it suitable for a home that emphasizes the importance of natural light and sustainable living. The design concept focuses on creating distinct spaces that cater to different daily activities while maintaining a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape.

Interior Layout

The interior of the residence is divided into two main areas: the living space and the sleeping quarters. The living area is bright and open, hosting the kitchen, dining room, study, and living room. This space encourages interaction and activity, essential for daily life. The sleeping area, which includes a bedroom and bathroom, is designed for rest and privacy, featuring softer lighting that promotes relaxation. This separation of functions mirrors the ideas of "yin" and "yang," illustrating how light and dark can coexist and enhance the living experience.

Natural Light Integration

Natural light plays a key role in the design, enhancing the atmosphere throughout the home. Carefully positioned doors and windows allow sunlight to pour into the living area directly. The sleeping zone benefits from soft, indirect light, creating a calming environment for bedtime. This intentional layout makes the most of the changing conditions outside, enriching the interior experience as the day progresses. The relationship between the inside and the outside becomes a dynamic quality that connects occupants with nature.

Material Use

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design, evident in the materials chosen. The main structure is made from lightweight concrete, finished with either white or black plaster for contrast. Inside, wood laminate flooring provides warmth, while the use of thermoregulating transparent glass for doors and windows ensures comfort and unobstructed views of the landscape. The bathroom features satin-finish glass to maintain privacy, and monochrome black and white laminates add to the interior's cohesive design.

The residence emphasizes a practical yet thoughtful connection to the surrounding landscape. Natural light is central to its design, influencing how spaces are used throughout the day. Each element has been carefully considered to enhance both functionality and the experience of living in harmony with nature.

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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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