Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Natural Stone And Glazed Facades Integrate With Reflective Water Features In A Sustainable Californian Residence

Author:
Troy Aday
Natural Stone And Glazed Facades Integrate With Reflective Water Features In A Sustainable Californian Residence

Project in-detail

Reflective pools and natural stone structures merge seamlessly with abundant glazing to create a harmonious residence in California that prioritizes sustainability and tranquility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes extensive glazing to enhance natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
02
Incorporates reflective water features that serve both aesthetic and cooling functions.
03
Features a central courtyard layout that fosters community interaction and connection to nature.
04
Employs locally sourced natural stone to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
05
Integrates solar panels discreetly into the roof design to maintain a clean aesthetic while enhancing sustainability.
The Reflection Home is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in Newberry Springs, California, aimed at creating a serene retreat that marries nature with modern living. This design represents an opportunity for contemporary architecture to engage harmoniously with its environment while offering functionality tailored to the lifestyle of its occupants. With a central focus on sustainability, the architectural design incorporates both passive and active energy solutions.

The Reflection Home primarily serves as a private residence, encouraging inhabitants to unwind and reflect amidst a tranquil setting. The layout is crafted to promote easy movement between indoor and outdoor spaces, with an emphasis on natural light and open vistas. By utilizing extensive glazing and minimizing solid walls, the design facilitates a seamless transition to the surrounding landscape, allowing for unobstructed views and an abundance of daylight.

Key elements of the Reflection Home’s design include the central courtyard, which acts as a communal space for relaxation and social interaction. It is flanked by the living and dining areas, each thoughtfully positioned to connect with nature. The living room, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass panels, not only enhances views of the adjacent reflection pool but also fosters an inviting atmosphere where occupants can feel inspired by their surroundings. The dining area complements this connection, offering easy access to both the interior and exterior, thus supporting an al fresco dining experience when desired.

The bedrooms within the Reflection Home prioritize privacy while maintaining a connection to the landscape. Each space incorporates large windows that frame views of the natural surroundings, ensuring that tranquil sights become part of daily life. This approach is complemented by the inclusion of reflection pools on both the eastern and western sides of the home. These water features not only enhance the visual appeal but also play a functional role in cooling and regulating the climate within the residence.

Materials used in the construction of the Reflection Home reflect a commitment to sustainability and durability. Concrete accents, particularly around the central fire pit, serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing a grounding element within the home. Natural stone flooring is used throughout, offering thermal mass that contributes to the energy efficiency of the structure. High-performance glazed glass further supports the home's environmental goals by maximizing natural light while minimizing heat loss.

The design of the Reflection Home also integrates renewable energy solutions. Solar panels are thoughtfully positioned on the roof, allowing the house to harness solar energy effectively, thereby reducing its dependence on grid electricity. This element of the architecture addresses modern sustainability goals while enhancing the overall performance of the home. Additionally, the landscaping incorporates drought-resistant plants and native species to minimize water consumption, which is a significant consideration in the arid conditions of Newberry Springs.

The unique design approach of the Reflection Home lies in its ability to create a living space that is not just a shelter but a nurturing environment. The interplay between architectural form and natural elements, such as light and water, fosters a daily rhythm for its inhabitants and encourages a lifestyle that values reflection and engagement with the environment. The integration of passive design strategies alongside active sustainability measures reinforces a comprehensive approach to modern living that is both responsible and aesthetically pleasing.

For those interested in architectural exploration, viewing the architectural plans or sections can provide deeper insights into the design principles that underpin this project. Engaging with the architectural designs and ideas further reveals the thoughtful choices made throughout the process, reflecting a balance of beauty, functionality, and sustainability. The Reflection Home stands as an example of how contemporary architecture can respond to natural surroundings while catering to the needs of its users, inviting readers to delve further into this project for a comprehensive understanding.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy