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Wooden Shear Walls and Scenic Views in a Sustainable Lakeside Retreat

Author:
Hangsong Ge
Wooden Shear Walls and Scenic Views in a Sustainable Lakeside Retreat
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With wooden shear walls that enhance structural integrity and a roof terrace that frames scenic lake views, the design creates a sustainable retreat focused on comfort and private relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Semicircle room maximizes views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Elevated roof terrace ensures privacy while providing outdoor access.
03
Wind turbine positioned away from living space supports energy needs.
04
Roof design incorporates a glass room for year-round usage.
05
Permeable parking areas reduce water runoff and promote sustainability.

The Duality Outlook Romantic Cabin combines modern living with a strong connection to the surrounding environment. Located near a serene lake, the cabin features a design that breaks from traditional shapes, focusing on a more organic form that enhances the relationship between the occupants and nature. The layout supports functionality while also considering sustainability, creating a living space that is both comfortable and environmentally friendly.

Site Planning

The planning of the site includes both permeable and hardscape parking areas. This layout addresses practical concerns while also reducing water runoff, making it more environmentally sensitive. The design incorporates multiple entrances: a main road entrance, an accessible entrance, and a maintenance entrance. This arrangement allows guests to enjoy their experience without interruption from maintenance activities.

Interior Layout

A standout feature is the semicircle room, designed to maximize views of the beautiful landscape. This room invites nature indoors, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. Additionally, the roof terrace offers an elevated space where guests can take in views of the lake. Elevated living areas help ensure privacy, making the cabin feel like a personal retreat amid the natural surroundings.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays a key role in the design. A wind turbine is installed away from the main cabin, providing renewable energy without disrupting the views. Solar panels and a stormwater collection system are also included, reflecting a commitment to environmental care. These elements showcase practical approaches to managing resources responsibly.

Materials and Structure

The cabin's structure is supported by wooden shear walls and highlighted posts. These materials give stability while blending visually with the natural setting. The choice of materials emphasizes a connection to the environment, allowing the cabin to fit into its landscape rather than stand apart from it.

Natural transitions from indoor to outdoor spaces underscore a desire to live closely with nature. The design offers a comfortable and thoughtful living experience, inviting residents to engage with the world around them.

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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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