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Translucent Structures Shaped by Biophilic Elements and Sustainable Film Materials for Communal Living

Author:
Avalon Olesen
Translucent Structures Shaped by Biophilic Elements and Sustainable Film Materials for Communal Living
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Utilizing transparent film and interconnected dome structures, this design creates multidisciplinary spaces that foster community interaction while prioritizing safety and natural light in social environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a transparent film exterior that maximizes natural light while maintaining structural integrity.
02
Features modular dome configurations that allow for flexible space utilization and user interaction.
03
Incorporates biophilic elements that enhance occupants' connection to nature within a communal framework.
04
Designed for seamless integration with the surrounding landscape, minimizing environmental impact.
05
Promotes safety and privacy through strategically arranged, interconnected living bubbles.

The architectural design project known as "The Bubble" offers a nuanced interpretation of spatial dynamics within contemporary architecture. The design features a series of interconnected, dome-like structures that serve multiple functions, fostering both individual and communal experiences. The transparent quality of the bubbles promotes natural light and creates an inviting atmosphere, allowing occupants to engage meaningfully with both the interior and surrounding environment.

The project's primary objective is to provide safe spaces for social interaction while maintaining a physical barrier that ensures personal comfort. Each bubble is dedicated to specific activities, including meeting spaces, social areas, and private retreats, emphasizing versatility in functionality. The layout encourages movement and interaction, featuring pathways that connect the various bubbles without infringing on their distinct identities.

Transparent Structures and Biophilic Design

A notable characteristic of "The Bubble" is its innovative use of clear materials that establish an ethereal quality. The main construction utilizes a transparent film, enhancing visibility and lightness while minimizing material usage. This design choice aligns with sustainability principles, reflecting a commitment to environmental consciousness. The integration of natural elements, such as surrounding plant life, reinforces the connection between architecture and nature, promoting a holistic living experience.

The design also breaks away from conventional building aesthetics. The spherical shapes challenge the dominant linear forms typically found in modern architecture, creating playful yet functional spaces. This approach invites occupants to rethink their interaction with the environment, encouraging a sense of community within discrete areas.

Adaptable Spaces and Innovative Layout

The spatial configuration of "The Bubble" is characterized by a flexible layout, allowing the interior to adapt according to the needs of its users. Each bubble can accommodate various activities, supporting both private and communal engagements. Furthermore, the design allows for the merging of multiple bubbles, facilitating larger gatherings when necessary.

The thoughtful arrangement of these interconnected structures aims to balance individual privacy with collective interaction, addressing contemporary societal needs. By prioritizing user experience, the design aims to create spaces that are not only functional but also conducive to mental well-being.

For those interested in exploring the architectural implications of "The Bubble," reviewing architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs will provide deeper insights. Engaging with these elements will demonstrate the innovative architectural ideas underpinning this project.

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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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