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Transparent Glass Facade with Energy-Efficient Steel Structure in Communal Workspace

Transparent Glass Facade with Energy-Efficient Steel Structure in Communal Workspace
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A central courtyard surrounded by a transparent glass facade and private workspaces encased in steel frames creates a dynamic environment for collaboration and productivity in Berlin's modern office architecture.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central courtyard fosters community engagement and collaboration among employees.
02
The building integrates energy-efficient systems with low-emission glass to enhance sustainability.
03
Flexible workspaces feature movable furniture to accommodate diverse work styles.
04
Vertical circulation encourages interaction through interconnected staircases and bridges.
05
Steel frameworks support expansive open spaces while maintaining structural integrity.

### Overview

Located in Berlin, the Axel Springer Neubau is a contemporary office structure designed to accommodate the evolving functions of workspaces while promoting social interaction among occupants. The building’s design reflects a modern interpretation of traditional urban block structures, incorporating a vibrant central courtyard that enhances community engagement and serves as a versatile public space for activities such as socialization and cultural events. The spatial organization prioritizes public areas on lower levels and allocates upper floors for private office environments, creating a strategic contrast between accessibility and privacy.

### Spatial Organization

The architectural layout comprises distinct zones tailored to different work styles. The open co-working area features shared workstations arranged on raised platforms to foster interaction and collaboration. In contrast, private office spaces are designed as glass-enclosed capsules, providing necessary privacy while maintaining a visual connection to the larger workspace. This arrangement cultivates a dynamic environment where both collaborative and focused work can thrive, promoting productivity through flexible spatial configurations.

### Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability is a key focus in the design, employing energy-efficient materials and systems to reduce the building's environmental impact. Low-emission glass panels and high-performance insulation contribute to energy efficiency, while the inclusion of greenery both within and adjacent to the structure reinforces the integration of natural elements in an urban context. The material palette incorporates steel, wood, and aluminum, creating a balance of durability and aesthetics, while movable furniture and adjustable curtains enhance the functionality of the workspace. These design choices reflect a commitment to creating comfortable and adaptable environments for users.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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