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Carbon Absorbing Pavements and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Magda Maciąg, Jan Chwedczuk
Carbon Absorbing Pavements and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub
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Incorporating carbon-absorbing pavements and cross-laminated timber, the design addresses urban sustainability while serving as a multifunctional community hub that enhances public engagement and green connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Carbon-absorbing pavements reduce urban air pollution.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and weather resistance.
04
The bent A-frame design facilitates innovative spatial dynamics.
05
Integrated native landscaping promotes local biodiversity and ecosystem health.

### Overview

Located in Krakow, Poland, the project focuses on enhancing public green spaces within the urban landscape. Given the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, the initiative aims to address issues such as urban pollution and limited recreational areas, thereby improving the overall well-being of residents. The design seeks to integrate ecological sustainability, urban connectivity, and social interaction into the existing urban fabric, creating a healthier and more accessible public space network.

### Spatial Strategy and Public Interaction

The design strategically delineates distinct areas for public use, prioritizing accessibility and mental well-being. Contextual diagrams illustrate both existing and proposed green spaces, with parks positioned to encourage social gatherings and interactions. The layout introduces new green corridors and pedestrian routes to enhance connectivity between different parts of the urban area. Additionally, an analysis of current public spaces reveals a blue network of water bodies that serves as key transit connecters, informing the planning of these green networks.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The materials chosen for this initiative reflect a commitment to sustainability while harmonizing with Krakow's architectural context. Innovative design elements include pavements that absorb CO2 and water-absorbing concrete to manage stormwater and reduce flooding. Additionally, the selection of native and climate-resilient plants bolsters local biodiversity. The construction techniques applied prioritize ecological integrity, integrating features such as a multifunctional pavilion that serves as a community center and greenhouse, coupled with a winter garden that enhances indoor air quality.

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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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