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Oblique-Cut Glass Facade with Plywood Interiors Enhancing Community Engagement

Authors:
Mattias Nyman, Anna Pietilä
Oblique-Cut Glass Facade with Plywood Interiors Enhancing Community Engagement
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A dynamically angled glass facade paired with warm plywood interiors creates a welcoming environment that fosters community interaction within this modern public library.
5 key facts about this project
01
The library features an oblique-cut facade to optimize natural light and visual connection with the surroundings.
02
Interior spaces are primarily defined by warm plywood finishes, enhancing aesthetic comfort.
03
Acoustic treatment is incorporated in specific areas to support focused study and collaboration.
04
Solar panels are integrated into the roof design, promoting energy efficiency.
05
Flexible meeting rooms can easily be reconfigured for diverse community events and workshops.

### Architectural Design Report: Public Library Project

#### Overview
Located in a bustling urban environment, the public library serves as a vital resource for community engagement and learning. The design prioritizes functionality and accessibility, aiming to create an environment that promotes interaction and knowledge sharing. The architectural composition features a striking oblique-cut rectangular volume, which facilitates movement and exploration throughout the space.

#### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The library's layout is strategically developed to enhance user experience. The first floor features open public reading areas that encourage browsing, complemented by multi-functional spaces intended for meetings, exhibitions, and classrooms. The prominent staircases, painted in vibrant green, create a visual focal point while effectively connecting different levels.

On the second floor, acoustically treated technical areas are designed to accommodate both individual study and collaborative work, ensuring a balance between quiet and interactive settings. The integration of large windows and skylights throughout enhances natural lighting, fostering a productive atmosphere.

#### Material Selection and Sustainability Features
The choice of materials reflects both aesthetic and environmental considerations. Concrete provides structural integrity and modern appeal, while extensive glass use enhances transparency and daylight penetration. Steel elements contribute to a sleek finish, while plywood offers warmth in furnishings.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design, featuring solar panels for renewable energy, large windows for natural ventilation, and a water management system that recycles rainwater for non-potable uses. These elements collectively support the library’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact while serving the community’s needs.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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