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Perforated Facade and Openable Wings in a Cliffside Retreat

Author:
Jovana Dmitric
Perforated Facade and Openable Wings in a Cliffside Retreat
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The interplay of a perforated facade and openable wings creates a unique living environment that immerses residents in the natural landscape of the cliff, serving as a tranquil retreat for reflection and renewal.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates intricate perforations that create dynamic shadows throughout the day.
02
Each sleeping unit features openable wings for personalized environmental control.
03
A wardrobe wall design separates sleeping areas while maximizing communal space.
04
Strategically placed windows offer panoramic views of the surrounding cliffside.
05
Lightweight materials ensure minimal environmental impact and easy integration with the landscape.

The Sleeping Pods on a Cliff represent a thoughtful merging of design and nature, located on a dramatic cliffside. These pods act as a retreat for individuals seeking tranquility in a modern living space. The concept centers on simplicity and mindfulness, making the most of the natural surroundings. It offers a balance between personal privacy and opportunities for social interaction.

Building Form

The facade of the sleeping pods is a clear, white surface that features perforations and geometric designs. These elements allow natural light to enter while creating interesting patterns of light and shadow inside. This connection to the outdoor environment enhances the experience of living within the pods, as it promotes awareness of the changing conditions outside.

Space Configuration

Two separate sleeping units are designed to encourage privacy while still allowing for shared community space. Each unit is accessed through independent openable wings, giving users control over their surroundings. This flexible arrangement supports different needs, whether an individual seeks solitude or wants to engage with others.

Interior Functionality

Internally, a wardrobe wall separates the sleeping areas from a common zone equipped with a sofa and coffee table. This layout encourages social interaction without compromising the comfort of personal space. Large windows bring in light and provide views of the outside, contributing to a peaceful and calming atmosphere for residents.

Material Choices

The construction materials include wood, metal, glass, and ceramic. This combination results in a lightweight structure that feels airy and open. Wood adds warmth to the interiors, while metal and glass contribute to a clean, modern look. The thoughtful choice of materials strengthens the connection between the living spaces and the natural landscape.

The facade’s perforations are a noteworthy detail, crafting patterns that shift and change throughout the day. Light filters through, creating a dynamic environment that varies as the sun moves.

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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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