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Cast Concrete and Transparent Glass Form a Multi-Faith Sanctuary Emphasizing Community Interaction

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Cast Concrete and Transparent Glass Form a Multi-Faith Sanctuary Emphasizing Community Interaction
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A fusion of cast concrete and expansive glass creates a serene environment where distinct religious practices converge, facilitating community engagement and reflective worship.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a combination of cast concrete and glass to enhance natural lighting.
02
Features distinct zones for individual faith practices while maintaining a connected layout.
03
Incorporates reflective water elements to promote tranquility and contemplation.
04
Design emphasizes sensory experiences through varied materials and textures.
05
Encourages interfaith dialogue through adaptable shared community spaces.

### Overview

"The Divine Order" is a multi-faith architectural complex designed by Italo Calvino, situated in an urban context that emphasizes inclusivity and communal interaction. The design integrates elements of both historical and contemporary religious architecture, aiming to create environments conducive to worship and dialogue across various faiths. By fostering a sense of community while honoring distinct religious practices, the project serves as a prototype for contemporary sacred architecture.

### Spatial Configuration and User Engagement

The configuration of spaces within the complex is strategically designed to balance communal gatherings with opportunities for personal reflection. Interconnected yet distinct areas facilitate a variety of worship practices while allowing for both active participation and solitude. This spatial organization reflects the essence of a pilgrimage, guiding visitors through a thoughtfully arranged sequence of corridors that promote contemplation and connection to the sacred. Each zone is tailored to accommodate the unique requirements of its faith group, fostering interfaith dialogue while catering to individual spiritual expressions.

### Materiality and Light

Material selection plays a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere of the building. Cast concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing both strength and a solemn aesthetic. The integration of glass in skylights and apertures enhances natural illumination, establishing a vital connection between interior spaces and the outside environment. Wood is incorporated in furnishings, introducing warmth and texture to counterbalance the rigidity of concrete. Additionally, natural stone is used for flooring and feature walls, contributing to the tactile experience while embodying the permanence associated with sacred spaces. The strategic use of light enhances the spiritual ambiance, with dynamic interactions between light and shadow creating a contemplative environment throughout the day.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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