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Sliding Wooden Doors Framing Natural Light in a Serene Lakeside Studio

Authors:
Tommy Lee, Yu-shao Wu
Sliding Wooden Doors Framing Natural Light in a Serene Lakeside Studio
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Sliding wooden doors create flexible spaces that frame captivating lake views while fostering a dynamic environment for artistic pursuits in this lakeside studio.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexibly designed central workshop allows for both collaboration and individual work.
02
Irregular window pattern frames diverse lake views, enhancing the connection to nature.
03
Varied elevations create distinct functional areas without physical barriers.
04
Sliding wooden doors seamlessly transform open spaces into private retreats.
05
Two separate living units balance communal interaction with individual privacy.

The Lake View Studio is a carefully designed space located beside a lake, intended for artists, especially painters. It features two living units that balance private areas with communal spaces. The concept centers around an idea called “folded daily life,” where the arrangement of solids and voids guides movement through the building, allowing a natural experience with the surrounding landscape.

Adaptability of Space

At the core of the studio is a central workshop that serves various purposes. This space can adapt as needed, enabled by sliding wooden doors that allow for flexible usage. When opened, it provides a large area for collaboration. When closed, it transforms into smaller, private areas for focused work. This design encourages both teamwork and personal reflection.

Connection to Nature

The location near the lake plays an important role in the design. The windows are carefully placed to offer multiple views of the water, allowing those inside to experience the changing landscape. This connection invites an ongoing interaction between the interior of the building and the natural world outside, enriching the experience in the studio.

Spatial Dynamics

Different elevations throughout the studio define various spaces without the need for walls. The height changes create a sense of hierarchy, allowing different activities to happen at the same time. This thoughtful use of space encourages exploration and interaction, making the environment feel lively and engaging.

Captivating Views

One standout feature is the unique window arrangement that frames the view of the lake. Each window serves as its own canvas, offering a fresh perspective on the scenery outside. This design encourages individuals to engage with their surroundings creatively, turning each glance through a window into a new experience. The connection between the studio and the stunning lakeside view enhances the overall atmosphere, inviting inspiration and reflection.

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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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