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Reflection Pools and Clerestory Windows Enhance Sustainable Living

Author:
Troy Aday
Reflection Pools and Clerestory Windows Enhance Sustainable Living
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Reflecting natural light through expansive clerestory windows and integrating serene reflection pools, the design achieves a balance of sustainability and aesthetic harmony in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflection pools enhance light diffusion and create a serene ambiance.
02
Clerestory windows enable passive ventilation while maintaining privacy.
03
Solar panels supply energy for household functions and water circulation.
04
Drought-tolerant landscaping conserves water and supports local ecology.
05
The fire pit serves as a focal point for evening gatherings and warmth.

The Reflection Home is set in Newberry Springs, California, designed as a residence that emphasizes sustainability and connection to the surrounding landscape. The concept focuses on using natural light and passive environmental techniques, which create both an inviting and functional living space. The interaction of indoor and outdoor areas serves as a key element, showcasing how built spaces can harmonize with the natural environment.

Maximized Natural Light

The home features large glass walls on the east and west sides that allow plenty of natural light to fill the interior. This design choice ensures bright living spaces during the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Reflection pools along these glass walls enhance the sunlight, lighting up the interior with a calming glow that changes as the sun moves across the sky.

Passive Ventilation Strategies

To meet California's energy goals for 2030, the Reflection Home uses smart passive ventilation methods. Open clerestory windows on both sides of the house help hot air escape while inviting cooler breezes from the reflection pools inside. By promoting airflow, the design keeps the living spaces comfortable without using mechanical cooling systems. This aspect reflects a careful approach to sustainable living.

Sustainable Materials and Energy Solutions

The roof is fitted with solar panels that generate energy for essential household functions, including running the reflection pools and appliances. This integration of renewable energy resources emphasizes the commitment to sustainability. Drought-resistant trees also play a role, helping to conserve water while enhancing the outdoor spaces.

An elevated fire pit serves as a gathering spot in the evenings. Its warm light reflects off the white ceiling, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The interaction between light and water towards the end of the day captures a peaceful environment, adapting well to both the natural setting and the needs of those who live there.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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