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Spherical Form Crafted with Titanium Zinc and Timber Integration for Sustainable Mountain Living

Authors:
Alessandro Scipolo, Ciro Chiumenti, Elena Aldà, Rachele Cabrini
Spherical Form Crafted with Titanium Zinc and Timber Integration for Sustainable Mountain Living
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Crafted with titanium zinc and modular timber, the design's spherical forms harmonize with the mountainous landscape, offering a communal living space that emphasizes sustainability and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with titanium zinc cladding for enhanced durability against harsh weather.
02
Incorporates modular design elements to allow flexible space configurations.
03
Utilizes a geothermal heating system to reduce energy consumption.
04
Features panoramic windows that enhance natural light and mountain views.
05
Integrates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.

### Overview
The "sNEwPals" project is situated in rugged mountainous terrain, characterized by three prominent peaks: Pema Peak (5,310 m), Phuma Peak (5,110 m), and Paldor Peak (5,928 m). The design concept draws from ecological, functional, and aesthetic considerations, creating a refuge that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The architecture incorporates spherical volumes inspired by snowball formations, emphasizing continuity and the dynamic nature of the landscape.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout is organized into two distinct floors to balance communal and private functions. The first floor accommodates shared spaces, including communal kitchens and living areas designed for interaction, enhanced by large windows that offer panoramic views of the mountains. The second floor is dedicated to private quarters, featuring en-suite bedrooms and recreational areas, ensuring user privacy while fostering a sense of community. This flexibility allows the space to be adapted for various uses, accommodating up to 20 guests and 4 staff members.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and durability. Wood and titanium zinc are pivotal; wood is utilized in internal structures for its lightweight and renewable qualities, while titanium zinc serves as the exterior cladding, providing long-lasting resistance to environmental conditions. Internal finishes include double particleboard for thermal and acoustic insulation and resin wood fiber board for wall panels.

Sustainable technologies are integral to the design, incorporating photovoltaic panels for energy production and water recycling systems to utilize snowmelt and rainwater. Circular openings in the structure enhance natural light and air circulation, contributing to energy efficiency. The design’s absence of corners mitigates structural stress and enhances spatial flow, facilitating both adaptability and ease of maintenance.

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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.

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