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Terraced Retreat Featuring Corrugated Shelters and Natural Materials

Author:
Andrea Bassetti
Terraced Retreat Featuring Corrugated Shelters and Natural Materials
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Constructed with terraced landscaping and utilizing corrugated materials, the retreat offers a harmonious balance of private and communal spaces designed for reflection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with corrugated materials to enhance durability and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates terraced landscaping that integrates seamlessly with the natural terrain.
03
Designed with optimized space allocation for both communal and private functions.
04
Features ramps for enhanced accessibility throughout the retreat.
05
Utilizes local materials that reflect regional building traditions and aesthetics.

The Vine Retreat is a contemporary design that represents the principles of vernacular domestic architecture within a setting that respects cultural heritage and environmental harmony. The aim is to provide a peaceful space for reflection and rejuvenation. By focusing on modularity and flexibility, the retreat supports a variety of uses over time, creating a cohesive atmosphere for both individuals and groups.

Functional Areas and Circulation

At the Vine Retreat, the layout is organized into distinct functional zones. These include private spaces such as the cabin and meditation area, as well as communal areas like the studio and terrace. Careful planning of circulation routes promotes smooth movement throughout the retreat. Ramps are incorporated to improve accessibility, fostering an inviting environment. This design encourages interaction among users while also ensuring privacy in individual spaces.

Design and Spatial Organization

The ground floor layout effectively connects various functional elements through thoughtful spatial arrangement. Each zone is designed with its intended activities in mind, allowing for an efficient flow of use that enhances the retreat’s overall functionality. Openings and pathways are strategically placed to promote a connection between indoor spaces and the natural surroundings, allowing light and fresh air to enrich the user experience.

Material Selection

Material choice is key to the identity of the Vine Retreat. A variety of materials, including corrugated sheets, brick tiles, palm leaves, bamboo, wood, and concrete, are used throughout the project. This selection not only provides stability and durability but also reflects local building techniques. The textures and colors of these materials help the retreat integrate with the landscape, adding to its overall character.

The architectural details of the Vine Retreat are conveyed through thorough floor plans and sections that clarify design intentions. These technical drawings show how structural elements relate to one another and interact with the environment. A notable feature is the ramp that connects to the terraced landscape, creating a practical relationship between the building and nature. This connection invites users to engage with both the retreat and its setting, enhancing the overall experience.

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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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