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Slanted Roofs and Sustainable Birch Create Harmonious Residential Spaces in Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Rachel Teo, Tivon Kwa
Slanted Roofs and Sustainable Birch Create Harmonious Residential Spaces in Natural Landscapes
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The slanted roofs of this residential structure, crafted from sustainable birch and connected by a central column, create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces amidst the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Slanted roofs mimic natural wave formations, enhancing visual harmony.
02
Central column design maximizes open-plan layout and structural support.
03
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views and integrate with the landscape.
04
Sustainable birch wood contributes to the project's eco-friendly approach.
05
Outdoor terraces promote engagement with the surrounding natural environment.

**Overview**
"Stillness in Motion" is situated in Cape Kalku, an area characterized by the dynamic interaction of ocean waves. The design seeks to establish a cohesive relationship between the indoor and outdoor environments, prioritizing both movement and tranquility. The project reflects the duality of static and dynamic elements inspired by the natural phenomena of the site, ultimately promoting user engagement with the landscape through carefully orchestrated spatial relationships.

**Spatial Configuration and Interaction**
The structure is organized around a central column that serves as the primary support element, with distinct open-plan units arranged to optimize visual connections to the outdoors. This layout enhances occupant interactions with the surrounding natural environment, simultaneously addressing functional requirements and promoting an ergonomic design. The ground floor features a spiral staircase that improves vertical circulation and enhances the sense of interconnectedness. Upper levels are divided into adaptable areas that support various activities, such as relaxation and yoga, allowing for a fluid lifestyle that encourages integration with the natural setting.

**Material Selection and Environmental Sensitivity**
The choice of materials is integral to the project’s identity. Concrete is utilized for the central column, providing structural stability, while birch wood adds warmth and sustainability to the interior finishes. Expansive glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light and transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces. Steel is employed for railings and support structures, contributing to durability and modern aesthetics. These materials reflect a commitment to environmental considerations by sourcing wood sustainably and optimizing the use of concrete and steel to minimize the construction's carbon footprint while ensuring longevity and aesthetic coherence.

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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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