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Black Wood Atelier Overlooking a Serene Lake

Author:
Shizuka Watanabe
Black Wood Atelier Overlooking a Serene Lake
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A black wood atelier commands attention with its expansive views over a tranquil lake, skillfully merging artistic workspace and residence into a cohesive living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
A black wood interior contrasts with an exterior white facade, enhancing visual harmony.
02
The design incorporates natural light through large windows that frame views of the lake.
03
An old well on the site serves as a symbolic source of inspiration for creative pursuits.
04
The layout emphasizes community by connecting the workshop with a south-facing courtyard.
05
The residence maintains low visibility, allowing the landscape to take precedence in its setting.

The Easel House is an architectural design situated in front of a calm lake, creating a space that emphasizes the harmony between creativity and the natural world. It serves dual functions as both a living space and a creative studio, inviting residents to explore imaginative possibilities. The design reflects a thoughtful approach to how built forms interact with their surroundings, enhancing experiences for the inhabitants and those who visit.

Architectural Context

The design integrates three key elements of the site: a hangar, an old well that symbolizes inspiration, and a south-facing courtyard. These features come together, fostering community connections while anchoring the house in its landscape. The workshop, placed strategically at this junction, becomes a central point, facilitating interaction among users and enriching the site’s historical narrative.

Contrast in Materiality

Easel House presents an interesting contrast in its choice of materials. The exterior features a white facade, which allows the building to blend into its natural environment. This choice minimizes visual disruption and lets the surrounding landscape take center stage. Inside, the workshop is designed with black wood, reflecting aspects of traditional architecture. This combination introduces a distinct experience, balancing what is seen outside with what is felt within.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces within the Easel House is notable for its effective use of layout. Open areas encourage movement and social interaction, while private spaces offer solitude and quiet reflection. This well-considered organization enables the house to function as both a home and a creative space. Residents can engage deeply with their artistic pursuits while enjoying a comfortable living environment.

Large windows frame views of the lake, creating a connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. This design choice brings natural light into the spaces, enhancing the daily experience. The openness to nature complements the artistic focus of the house, encouraging a strong relationship between creativity and the environment.

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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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