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Recycled Glass Walls and Timber Framework in a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Syeda Ruaida Islam, Rashid Anjum Adil
Recycled Glass Walls and Timber Framework in a Sustainable Community Hub
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Recycled glass walls and a timber framework define a unique community hub in India, seamlessly integrating a meditation chamber and a green zone for vegetable harvesting, promoting sustainability alongside social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique green zone for vegetable harvesting included in the upper level.
02
Meditation chamber designed for personal reflection and tranquility.
03
Recycled glass walls enhance natural light and visibility throughout the space.
04
Conserved stone wall connects the structure to its historical roots.
05
Timber framework offers warmth and ties the design to local materials.

The Barn of the Ozolin Tea Maker is located in the Indian sub-continent, creating a blend of culture and modern living. Drawing from the banyan tree, the design concept highlights themes of continuity and connection with the surrounding environment. This building serves multiple functions, promoting a space for both community interaction and individual moments of solitude.

Architectural Concept

The design emphasizes the balance between communal and individual spaces. A large multi-purpose gathering area invites social engagement, providing a setting for various activities. At the same time, a meditation chamber offers a quiet retreat for personal reflection. This design considers the diverse needs of the occupants, allowing for both connection and personal time.

Materiality

A timber frame forms the core structure of the building, offering stability and warmth to the interior. Recycled glass fills inclined walls, allowing natural light to flood the space and promoting ventilation. This focus on sustainability enhances energy efficiency while showcasing a commitment to responsible material use. PET flakes are used for insulation at lower levels, further supporting the aim of reducing waste.

Historical Context

The conserved stone wall ties the new structure back to its historical setting, emphasizing the importance of maintaining heritage. This design choice connects the modern elements with the past, reinforcing the narrative of the site. A wooden floor enhances the barn's natural aesthetic, adding to the overall sensory experience and complementing the surrounding environment.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays a key role in the project, particularly on the upper level, where a green zone is designed for vegetable harvesting. This feature encourages self-sufficiency in food production, linking the occupants to their environment. The thoughtful integration of nature into the design highlights a lifestyle that appreciates local produce and community interaction.

The design incorporates large glass elements and thoughtful airflow, creating a welcoming atmosphere that honors the relationship between the past and the present. It presents a balance of historical respect and modern living, ensuring that the barn serves its community while promoting sustainability.

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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?

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