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Biophilic Design Featuring Organic Forms and Concrete Utilization in a Community Space

Authors:
Zhifei Chen, Sam Landon, Sam Landon
Biophilic Design Featuring Organic Forms and Concrete Utilization in a Community Space
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The innovative use of concrete and extensive glazing creates a seamless integration of nature and urbanity, establishing a multifunctional gathering space that fosters community engagement and artistic expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes extensive glazing to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the exterior environment.
02
Incorporates biophilic elements, enhancing well-being through integrated greenery and gardens.
03
Features a flexible atrium space designed for diverse community activities and events.
04
Employs a unique organic form that contrasts traditional urban architectural styles.
05
Prioritizes sustainability through the use of durable materials and energy-efficient systems.

### Project Overview

Gather at Piazza Galeno is an event space situated in Rome, designed to function as a communal gathering point amid the city’s urban environment. The project addresses the need for a vibrant hub in a historically rich area, integrating the surrounding natural landscape while enhancing connectivity among visitors. The design seeks to maximize user interaction and promote a dynamic atmosphere in an area previously characterized by isolation.

### Spatial Configuration and Design Elements

The architectural approach employs organically shaped forms that create dynamic internal spaces, with a grand atrium at its center, illuminated by an expansive skylight that ensures an abundance of natural light. The design is defined by two main components:

1. **The Shell**: This outer layer reflects environmental fluidity while maintaining structural robustness.

2. **The Inner Structure**: Featuring soft curves and ample spaces, this section accommodates conference rooms, cafes, art galleries, and exhibition areas. The atrium's layout promotes movement and encourages social interaction, with pathways that guide visitors through distinct zones, each offering unique experiences.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Concrete serves as the primary material, offering durability and an earthy texture that bridges the internal and external environments. Complementary materials include:

- **Glass**: Utilized predominantly in the skylight and display areas to facilitate visibility and strengthen indoor-outdoor connections.
- **Plant Life**: The incorporation of greenery, including trees and gardens, enhances the architectural experience by introducing a biophilic aspect that softens the hard surfaces.
- **Steel and Fabric**: Structural elements such as railings provide necessary strength, while fabric components contribute to acoustics and visual appeal.

The project emphasizes sustainability through energy-efficient design choices, utilizing appropriate materials and systems to minimize environmental impact. Key functional areas are carefully organized across three levels to support a range of activities, enhancing user experience and promoting community engagement. The design not only accommodates multifunctional spaces such as conference rooms and art galleries but also integrates an inner garden as a peaceful retreat in the urban setting.

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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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