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Transparent Wood Pavilion with Asymmetrical Shells Overlooking Coastal Cliffs

Authors:
Ludvig Ädelroth, Olle Palm, Elliot Larsson
Transparent Wood Pavilion with Asymmetrical Shells Overlooking Coastal Cliffs
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Crafted from transparent wood and shaped by asymmetrical shells, the pavilion offers a shelter that enhances the coastal experience while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding cliffs and sea.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent wood technology is utilized to create visually open walls with enhanced structural strength.
02
The pavilion features two asymmetrical shells designed to optimize wind resistance while providing shelter.
03
It offers unobstructed views of the nearby Kullaberg cliffs and the sea through its transparent design.
04
Natural ventilation is achieved with strategically placed gaps in the wall panels for airflow.
05
The height of the pavilion aligns with the nearby lighthouse, reinforcing the coastal visual context.

The Wooden View pavilion is a structure on the cliffs of Mölle in southern Sweden. It functions as a space for observation and shelter, designed to connect visitors with the surrounding landscape. The overall design concept centers around the use of transparent wood technology, engaging with environmental elements and modern architectural practices.

Form and Inspiration
The form of the pavilion is inspired by maritime themes, resembling shapes such as wooden boats and sails. This design reflects the coastal context and the area's long-standing relationship with the sea. The structure consists of two asymmetrical framework shells that face each other, creating a unique dialogue with the landscape and enhancing the experience of the views outside.

Materiality and Structure
The pavilion is built using a new type of wood that replaces lignin with a transparent polymer. This innovation results in a material that is both see-through and stronger than conventional wood. Consequently, large openings allow for clear views of the cliffs and sea while ensuring the building remains sturdy. The design enables natural light to fill the space, connecting the interior and exterior environments.

Environmental Integration
The height of the pavilion has been carefully considered to align with the nearby lighthouse, creating a cohesive visual relationship in the area. Transparent walls offer continuous views while allowing wind to flow through small gaps for natural ventilation. This design choice enhances comfort for visitors while maintaining a balance between aesthetics and environmental responsiveness.

Inside the pavilion, variations in the thickness of the framework and wall panels create interesting effects of light and shadow. These effects change throughout the day, influenced by sunlight and weather, making each visit a distinct experience.

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The Next House: USA
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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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