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Ramping Pathways of Concrete and Glass Create Engaging Community Spaces

Authors:
Rosa Cortez, Sandy Hernandez, Marta Jimenez, Gladis Ayala
Ramping Pathways of Concrete and Glass Create Engaging Community Spaces
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Large angular forms of concrete and expansive glass facades unite to create multifunctional community spaces that foster interaction and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large angular structures create dynamic sightlines throughout the space.
02
Ramping pathways enhance accessibility and visual engagement.
03
A focus on integrating natural landscaping complements the built environment.
04
The use of charred wooden shingles adds a distinct aesthetic and durability.
05
Expansive glass facades promote daylighting and connection to the surroundings.

## Project Overview

Galen Square XVI is situated within a historically rich urban context, embodying Roman architectural influences and reflecting the city’s cultural heritage. The design integrates classical elements with contemporary architectural principles, aiming to create a dynamic public space that fosters community interaction and cultural engagement.

### Spatial Organization and Accessibility

The layout of Galen Square XVI includes a variety of programmatic spaces such as an exhibition gallery, management offices, an auditorium, and multipurpose areas that serve diverse community needs. A prominent feature is the ramping pathway that provides accessibility to the upper levels, while the tiered design responds to the site’s topography, enhancing the overall user experience. The architectural forms, including a large, angular structure, serve as a visual anchor and facilitate exploration, while curved building elements draw inspiration from the Roman Coliseum, bridging historical references with modern needs.

### Materiality and Contextual Integration

Durability and aesthetic appeal are central to the material selection for Galen Square XVI. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, offering flexibility and stability, while large glass windows promote natural light and visual connections to the surrounding environment. Textured stone is used for the ramp, creating a tactile experience that resonates with visitors and references Roman architectural traditions, and metal accents in structural support add a contemporary touch. This thoughtful integration of materials supports the project’s relationship to its historical context, encouraging both mobility and interaction within the urban landscape.

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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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