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Reading Rooms Surrounded by Double-Glazed Glass in a Flexible Space for Contemplation

Authors:
Bashar Bitar, Abdel Rahman Bitar, Anas Bitar, Ola Bitar
Reading Rooms Surrounded by Double-Glazed Glass in a Flexible Space for Contemplation
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With reading rooms enveloped in double-glazed glass, the design creates flexible spaces for contemplation that embody the essence of a tree, promoting knowledge and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Trunk structure serves as the main circulation core for the installation.
02
Double-glazed glass walls enhance natural light and energy efficiency.
03
Reading rooms are designed for flexibility in use and arrangement.
04
Incorporates adjustable blinds for tailored light control.
05
Ground-level room ensures accessibility for all users.

The Tree of Knowledge serves as an urban installation that combines architectural design with themes of nature. Located in an urban or semi-urban area, the structure is intended to be a space for contemplation and learning. Its design represents the characteristics of a tree, symbolizing life, growth, and the pursuit of knowledge. The installation invites people to connect with their environment in a meaningful way.

Conceptual Framework
The project centers around the idea of a tree, which serves as a metaphor for nurturing and developing knowledge. The design features a central trunk that acts as a main pathway for circulation. Surrounding this core are reading and meditation rooms, conceptualized as the "fruits" of the tree. This arrangement mirrors the natural process of growth, where knowledge is cultivated and shared.

Spatial Organization
Within the design, multiple reading and meditation areas are arranged around the structural trunk. Each room is designed to provide flexibility, allowing adjustments to the number and function of spaces according to the needs of the community. Key design elements, like adjustable blinds, help control light, creating an environment that is conducive to study and reflection.

Accessibility Features
Accessibility is a crucial aspect of the structure, as shown by the ground-level room designed for ease of movement. This feature accommodates individuals with mobility limitations and aims to promote inclusivity among users. The intention is to allow everyone to engage with the space, regardless of their physical abilities.

Materials and Sustainability
While specific materials are not highlighted, the design incorporates double-glazed glass for the operable walls. This choice not only enhances the natural light in the space but also contributes to energy efficiency. By blending functional features with aesthetic qualities, the installation reflects a thoughtful approach to sustainability.

The careful arrangement of spaces for reflection and study emphasizes connections between people and nature, reminding users of the importance of knowledge and growth in their lives.

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

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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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