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Undulating Forms of Ductal Concrete Crafted for Cultural Engagement

Author:
Kato Lee
Undulating Forms of Ductal Concrete Crafted for Cultural Engagement
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Constructed with undulating forms of ductal concrete, this cultural center in Rome fosters community connections and artistic expression through its flexible exhibition spaces and engaging public areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using advanced ductal concrete for enhanced durability and design flexibility.
02
Features an undulating roof structure that optimizes acoustic performance in performance spaces.
03
Integrates a public plaza that encourages social interaction and serves as an outdoor venue.
04
Adapts to various event types with reconfigurable seating arrangements in the main hall.
05
Incorporates sustainable building practices through the use of high-strength and self-consolidating concrete.

### Overview

Located in the historical center of Rome, the Poetry Hub aims to integrate modern architectural practices with the city's rich cultural identity. This multi-functional space is designed to host social, artistic, and community gatherings, promoting urban interaction and diverse uses of space. By drawing inspiration from historical arch forms, the project seeks to create a dialogue between classical architecture and contemporary design.

### Spatial Organization and Flexibility

The Poetry Hub features a significant expansion of its exhibition areas, increasing from 120 m² to 4,600 m². This adaptability allows the facility to accommodate various events, from performances to exhibitions, making it conducive to both intimate gatherings and large public functions. The layout includes multiple levels that facilitate social interaction, including an open public plaza designed for pedestrian traffic and outdoor events, and a dedicated Poetry Hall that addresses acoustic performance and audience experience through flexible seating arrangements.

### Material and Structural Innovation

Material selection plays a pivotal role in both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the Poetry Hub. The design incorporates various concrete types, including standard concrete for structural strength, high-strength concrete to minimize material usage while ensuring durability, and ductal concrete for its resistance to environmental conditions. Advanced computation techniques have been employed to optimize the structure, particularly evident in the undulating roof design that enhances the acoustic properties of the performance areas. These choices reflect a commitment to sustainability by reducing material waste and environmental impact within a modern architectural framework.

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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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