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Natural Stone Integration and Glass Embrace in Appalachian Hospice Design

Natural Stone Integration and Glass Embrace in Appalachian Hospice Design
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Combining locally sourced stone and expansive glass elements, this hospice facility integrates seamlessly into the Appalachian landscape, providing a tranquil environment for end-of-life care.
5 key facts about this project
01
Locally sourced stone is integrated into the structure, enhancing its connection to the surrounding landscape.
02
Expansive glass walls offer uninterrupted views of the Appalachian scenery, promoting tranquility.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to durability and align with fire-resistant design principles.
05
The layout features pathways that mimic tree roots, symbolizing life journeys and fostering reflection.

## Analytical Report: "Roots in Stone"

### Overview
Located in the Appalachian Mountains of Kentucky, the hospice "Roots in Stone" is strategically positioned between Paintsville Lake and Yatesville Lake State Parks. The design is intended to provide a tranquil environment for individuals and their families during the hospice journey, integrating architecture with the surrounding natural landscape to foster a space of reflection and comfort.

### Spatial Configuration
The structural layout is organized around a central hub that branches into various communal and private areas. This design promotes accessibility while maximizing views of the adjacent forests and lakes. Pathways within the facility mimic the form of tree roots, guiding occupants through the space and symbolizing life's journey. The arrangement carefully considers both solitude and communal interaction, essential for the well-being of patients and their visitors.

### Material Selection
Key materials used in the construction include marble, stone, and glass, each chosen for both aesthetic and functional properties. Marble serves as a structural element and flooring, establishing a tactile connection to the earth. Stone is integrated into walls and outdoor areas, providing a sense of permanence and protection. Extensive use of glass facilitates unobstructed views of the landscape, creating light-filled interiors that evolve with natural daylight, thereby enhancing the overall therapeutic environment.

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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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