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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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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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