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Wood and Green Integration in a Mindful Community Space

Authors:
Derya Yüce, Elif Sarpaşar, Cansu Güreser, Morteza Kabiri
Wood and Green Integration in a Mindful Community Space
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Incorporating a double-layer façade and a sustainable wood structure, the design seamlessly connects indoor spaces with a tranquil zen garden, creating an environment tailored for yoga and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integration of a zen garden that serves as a meditation space within the building layout.
02
Use of a double-layer façade to regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption.
03
Incorporation of a ground-source heat pump system for efficient heating and cooling.
04
Flexible spatial arrangements that adapt to various community activities and individual practices.
05
Focus on local wood materials to enhance sustainability and minimize transportation impact.

The design is situated in a quiet area that promotes reflection and a sense of peace. It draws on the principles of yoga and mindfulness, creating spaces designed for both social gatherings and personal retreat. The concept is rooted in simplicity and a relationship with nature, evident in the layout that seeks to provide comfort and clarity amid life’s complexities.

Conceptual Framework

The design encourages self-discovery and tranquility. The layout includes a mezzanine floor for resting, a main yoga hall for practice, and important facilities such as shower changing rooms and an entrance hall. A zen garden weaves through the site, starting at the entrance and flowing into a sunset garden, emphasizing the connection to the surrounding environment.

Sustainability Initiatives

Environmental sustainability is a key focus of the design. The building aims to minimize carbon emissions during its lifespan, incorporating systems that enhance energy efficiency. A double-layer façade controls heat and sunlight, making the interior comfortable while connecting it to the outdoors. This transparency allows occupants to feel engaged with their surroundings.

Materials and Energy

Wood is the main material used in the construction, chosen for its beauty and compatibility with sustainable goals. It enhances the project’s overall character and provides a warm atmosphere. Solar panels supply hot water and electricity, while a ground source heat pump offers efficient heating and cooling. A rainwater collection and recycling system is also part of the design, enabling the use of gathered water for irrigation and further supporting the environmental commitment.

Design Details

The composition reflects a thoughtful blend of function and nature. Different spaces are arranged to allow for various uses, making the experience adaptable for users. The zen garden not only serves as a place for social interaction but also invites quiet contemplation, embodying the project’s intent to foster a deeper connection with the natural world.

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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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