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Undulating Glass Facade and Steel Framework Enhancing Exhibition Spaces in a Contemporary Museum Expansion

Undulating Glass Facade and Steel Framework Enhancing Exhibition Spaces in a Contemporary Museum Expansion
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With an undulating glass facade and a robust steel framework, the expansion enhances the existing museum's exhibition spaces, creating an immersive environment that connects visitors with the artifacts of history.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates an undulating roofline that facilitates natural daylight penetration throughout the interior.
02
Exposed steel framing emphasizes structural integrity while contributing to the modern aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for sustainability, enhancing thermal performance.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to resilience and a unique visual texture.
05
Strategically placed terraces allow for outdoor engagement and exhibit visibility.

### Project Overview
The extension of the Archaeology Museum in Philadelphia serves as a contemporary gallery that aligns with the institution’s focus on anthropology and archaeology. This design seeks to bridge historical context with modern architectural principles, aiming to enhance the visitor experience while engaging with the dynamic narratives of the past.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Interaction
The extension introduces a series of angular forms that disrupt the traditional museum silhouette, creating a visually stimulating environment. The layout encourages exploration and interaction through evolving pathways and sculptural staircases that facilitate movement. This configuration not only supports circulation but also integrates various exhibit spaces, inviting visitors to engage deeply with the displays.

### Material Palette and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to both modern aesthetics and sustainability. Transparent glass elements establish a visual connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape, while exposed steel structures convey strength and contemporary design. Concrete provides durability and a sense of permanence, complemented by warm wood accents that enhance the tactile experience. Natural and artificial lighting is strategically employed to create an inviting ambiance and highlight key exhibits, amplifying the overall visitor experience.

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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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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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