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Bifurcated Tower Integrating Natural Ventilation and Community Education

Authors:
Anastasia Shkarupa, Anna Terekhina, Nikita Starostin, Anna Rostovskya
Bifurcated Tower Integrating Natural Ventilation and Community Education
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A bifurcated tower structure enhances natural ventilation while seamlessly integrating community education and a nature reserve to address urban biodiversity needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bifurcated tower structure enhances spatial dynamics.
02
Central circulation system promotes accessibility and interaction.
03
Dedicated areas for educational programs on biodiversity.
04
Natural ventilation design reduces reliance on mechanical systems.
05
Integration of public and research functions within a single facility.

The project is a vertical nature reserve located in central Cape Town, South Africa. It sits near the main boulevard and port area, aiming to tackle the important issue of animal extinction within an urban environment. The design features a bifurcated tower structure. This approach emphasizes height while creating different functional areas that blend ecological conservation with community involvement.

Spatial Organization

The building supports endangered species through specific areas dedicated to a nature reserve and an educational center. These spaces help raise awareness about biodiversity and conservation efforts. There are also offices and research facilities included, which allow for in-depth studies and animal care.



Functional Areas

The total area of the project is 153,500 square meters, not counting the basement. It includes 61,300 square meters for offices and research spaces, and 50,800 square meters for animal care. Additionally, 20,500 square meters is allocated for food and retail, with an 8,900 square meter grand lobby entrance. For convenience, a basement offers 32,000 square meters for parking. The building also has 12,000 square meters set aside for auxiliary spaces.



Design Considerations

Natural ventilation is a key focus in the design, which improves the indoor environment and reduces the need for mechanical cooling. The varying heights of the structure provide visual interest and create a dynamic skyline. It features a protective shell that helps limit direct sunlight, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort for visitors inside.



Ecological Integration

The design responds to urban challenges related to biodiversity. It connects public areas with research functions, showing how nature can coexist with city life. A central circulation system links different spaces within the building, facilitating movement and encouraging interaction among visitors. This design detail brings together the community and the mission of conservation as a fundamental part of the experience.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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