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Reflective Glass Facades and Concrete Elements Shaping a Multifunctional Urban Dwelling

Reflective Glass Facades and Concrete Elements Shaping a Multifunctional Urban Dwelling
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Utilizing reflective glass facades and thermal mass concrete, the design enhances light management while creating a communal living space that responds to urban density and environmental challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass facades enhance light dynamics within the urban context.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles contribute to improved durability and fire resistance.
04
The design incorporates adaptive lighting systems that respond to ambient conditions.
05
Multifunctional living spaces promote communal interaction and flexibility for residents.

## Overview
Bortle 7 is an architectural design situated in a densely populated urban area, specifically addressing the challenges associated with light pollution and urban density. Drawing inspiration from the Bortle Scale, which categorizes the night sky's brightness, the design aims to enhance urban living by exploring the dynamics between natural and artificial light within the built environment. The project seeks to reinterpret nighttime experiences, advocating for a design philosophy that embraces urban light as a positive element rather than a hindrance.

## Spatial Strategy
The layout of Bortle 7 demonstrates a deliberate organization of interconnected spaces that prioritize both functionality and user experience. Key areas, such as the living room, kitchen, and private quarters, are designed to cater to varying needs for interaction and introspection. The living room serves as a multifunctional hub, integrating outdoor light sources while creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation. The kitchen is designed with efficiency in mind, facilitating sociability through ample natural light. Private areas like the bedroom and bath are crafted as retreats, balancing privacy with opportunities for communal interaction.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection in Bortle 7 reflects both aesthetic and functional considerations, contributing to the project's overall architectural intent. Large glass panels enhance spatial transparency and foster connections to the surrounding environment, allowing both natural and urban light to permeate the interiors. The use of concrete imparts structural integrity while optimizing thermal mass for energy efficiency. Wood finishes introduce warmth and textural contrast, softening the more rugged elements of glass and concrete. Additionally, the incorporation of sustainable practices, such as strategic daylight harvesting and adaptable LED technology, minimizes energy consumption while ensuring optimal lighting conditions throughout the day.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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