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Rotating Glass Facade with Concrete Structure for Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Riccardo Nadotti, Federico Girolimini
Rotating Glass Facade with Concrete Structure for Compact Urban Living
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A rotating cube enveloped in glass and reinforced concrete redefines compact urban living by allowing residents to dynamically adjust their spatial experience while maximizing functionality in just 25 square meters.
5 key facts about this project
01
A rotating mechanism allows the living unit to change orientation and views.
02
The use of extensive glass panels maximizes natural light and visual connections with the surroundings.
03
Interior spaces are designed for multifunctionality, incorporating living, sleeping, and work zones.
04
Smart technology integrates with the architecture for enhanced user control and automation.
05
Sustainable materials, including concrete and wood, promote an ecological living environment.

The architectural project "RULE IT" is a compact living unit designed to address contemporary lifestyle needs in urban environments. Encompassing an area of 25 square meters, this project exemplifies efficient spatial organization and adaptability. It reflects a modern response to the growing demand for multifunctional living spaces while integrating advanced technology to enhance the inhabitant's experience.

The design of "RULE IT" prioritizes flexibility, allowing for various uses within the same volume. Its modular layout incorporates zones for living, sleeping, working, and recreation, all strategically arranged to maximize functionality without compromising comfort. The use of materials such as concrete, glass, wood, and mirror coating not only ensures structural integrity but also promotes aesthetic appeal and sustainability.

Innovative aspects of this project include a rotational box mechanism that allows the living unit to pivot, enabling residents to alter their views and interaction with the surrounding environment. This feature enhances the connection between the interior space and nature, adapting easily to the changing needs and behaviors of the occupants. The integration of smart technology, such as wireless charging and automation, further positions "RULE IT" as a forward-thinking architectural solution.

The architectural design emphasizes transparency and visual continuity with the outside world through extensive use of glass. This choice allows natural light to permeate the space, creating a sense of expansiveness and airiness in a compact footprint. In contrast, the use of wood introduces natural warmth, while mirror coating enhances the perception of space, reflecting the surrounding environment.

The project stands out due to its unique combination of adaptability and advanced technology. The rotational capability, coupled with smart home integration, provides a level of user interaction that is seldom seen in traditional housing designs. By allowing inhabitants to control their living conditions through digital interfaces, the design enhances autonomy and comfort.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural project, it is recommended to explore additional elements like architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain comprehensive insights into the innovative ideas embodied within "RULE IT."

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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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