Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Black Lava Sand Structure with Plant Epidermis in a Thermal Waters Retreat

Authors:
Alexandra Paltineanu, Nicolas Tzimakas
Black Lava Sand Structure with Plant Epidermis in a Thermal Waters Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with black lava sand and enveloped by a living plant epidermis, the retreat harmonizes with its thermal waters while offering spaces for communal engagement and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates black lava sand concrete to blend with the volcanic landscape.
02
A living plant epidermis is used to enhance environmental integration and seasonal change.
03
Thermal waters are visually accessible from the central gathering area.
04
Footbridges connect various pavilions, promoting circulation and interaction.
05
Design elements reflect the cultural narrative of the hidden people of the land.

The design presents a thoughtful blend of built structures and the natural landscape, located in a remote area that highlights a connection to elemental themes. The concept centers around the notion of a “ship” anchoring itself to the ground, promoting a relationship between the architecture and the environment. This space serves as a refuge for travelers, encouraging both social interaction and opportunities for personal contemplation.

Conceptual Framework

The idea of the “hidden people” is an essential theme, drawing from cultural narratives that highlight the significance of indigenous inhabitants. This approach reflects an understanding of ecological balance and a desire to harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem. The arrangement of spaces balances private areas and communal ones, allowing users to engage deeply with the architecture and the natural environment.

Spatial Configuration

Users enter through a space referred to as the “Earth’s concavity,” which leads to a welcoming central foyer. Here, elements like dancing flames create a warm atmosphere. This area encourages social gatherings while maintaining views of the nearby thermal waters. Throughout the site, footbridges and pavilions serve specific purposes, including wellness activities and social gatherings, helping users navigate the various areas of the design efficiently.

Material Considerations

The materials chosen for construction are vital to achieving the overall vision. Black lava sand concrete makes up the base, connecting the structure to its rugged surroundings. The use of manufactured panels forms the main structural framework, providing both stability and versatility. Concrete panels act as protective layers, complemented by a textured white finishing plaster that harmonizes with the landscape. Additionally, the inclusion of a plant epidermis hints at an ongoing interaction between the architecture and nature, creating an evolving surface that changes with the seasons.

Spaces invite users to find peace among the elements, with design details that enhance the overall experience. Light and shadow play together, creating a dynamic environment that encourages reflection and deeper connections with the world outside.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy