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Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Solitude in a Harmonious Community Space

Author:
D.h. Kim
Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Solitude in a Harmonious Community Space
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Reflective surfaces create a serene ambiance that encourages introspection and connection in a community space designed for quiet reflection and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces enhance natural light throughout the space.
02
Panels facilitate indirect interaction and personal reflection.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and warmth.
04
A bent A-frame design creates unique spatial dynamics.
05
Natural elements integrate the building with its surroundings.

The design presents a thoughtful exploration of the connection between individuality and community. Located in an urban setting, it serves as a peaceful refuge aimed at fostering reflection and introspection among users. The concept is influenced by the Japanese idea of "Wa," which means harmony, highlighting the importance of peaceful coexistence within a group while respecting personal identities.

Panels

Carefully arranged panels create a spatial framework that encourages indirect interaction. Users can engage with their environment without direct confrontation, allowing for moments of solitude and contemplation. The arrangement fosters an atmosphere conducive to self-discovery while maintaining respect for each individual's personal space.

Reflective Surfaces

Reflective surfaces play a crucial role in the design. These materials amplify natural light, creating a dynamic visual experience that changes throughout the day. They enhance aesthetic appeal and cultivate a calm environment, inviting users to pause and interact with their surroundings.

Balancing Harmony and Individuality

A key aspect is the balance between harmony and individuality. The approach allows each person's unique presence to be acknowledged within a cohesive setting. This relationship redefines interactions, enabling individuals to be seen as vital members of a community while preserving their autonomy.

Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements into the design enriches the user experience. Features integrated into the architectural framework encourage users to connect with both interior and exterior spaces, merging the boundaries between architecture and nature. The result is an environment that nurtures both reflection and engagement.

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MICROHOME 2026
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The Next House: USA
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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

`
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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20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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