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Thermal Blocks and Perforated Roof Enhance Passive Cooling in Educational Atrium

Authors:
Tamara Šebetovsky, Dora Perković
Thermal Blocks and Perforated Roof Enhance Passive Cooling in Educational Atrium
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With a pitched roof that incorporates perforations for passive cooling and masonry thermal blocks for insulation, the design enhances visitor engagement with the surrounding wetlands through an educational atrium.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated roof design enhances natural ventilation and cooling.
02
Masonry thermal blocks provide effective insulation while minimizing energy use.
03
Atrium space accommodates local flora, promoting educational engagement.
04
Strategic placement of entrances encourages visitor interaction with the landscape.
05
Building positioned to maximize views of surrounding wetlands and natural light.

The design is located in an unbuilt area, surrounded by flat land and water ponds, setting the scene for its unique character. It is a single-story structure, which allows for minimal excavation while taking advantage of sweeping views of the nearby wetlands. The overall concept centers on a self-referencing, temple-like form that connects with three key elements: the local climate, the movement of people and vehicles, and the visual backdrop created by the wetlands.

Building Form and Strategy

The structure has a mostly closed form, consciously positioned at the site’s edge. This placement creates selective openings that invite visitors to engage with the landscape. A pitched roof serves a dual purpose — it acts as a cooling device by drawing in cooler air from above, promoting natural ventilation and enhancing comfort within the building.

Atrium and Internal Dynamics

At the heart of the design is an atrium, which functions as a central space for displaying local flora while also helping to control indoor temperatures through evaporative cooling. The atrium establishes a strong connection between the occupants and nature, illustrating how interior spaces can support environmental goals effectively.

Airflow and Perforations

The pitched roof features perforations that allow air to flow freely, utilizing the thermal stack effect to expel warmer air upwards and out of the building. This clever detail not only improves indoor air quality but also lets natural light penetrate deeper into the spaces, brightening the environment while keeping energy use in check.

Material Considerations

For structural integrity, the design includes masonry thermal blocks that provide insulation and reinforced concrete slabs that ensure a stable foundation. The roof is made up of multidirectional laminated wooden beams, which create the necessary pitch for effective ventilation and allow ample daylight to illuminate the interior.

Multiple entrances enhance accessibility, guiding visitors through various points of interest, including the main entrance, gift shop, and terrace. This thoughtful arrangement encourages interaction with the environment while offering diverse experiences from different perspectives.

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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?

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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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