Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Centering Greenery with Polycarbonate and Steel Framework in a Vertical Space

Authors:
John Henry, Dany Mazloum
Centering Greenery with Polycarbonate and Steel Framework in a Vertical Space
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
With a core filled with greenery and a structure defined by polycarbonate and steel, the design creates an engaging vertical space that enhances user experience while providing a platform for observation and interaction with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central core filled with diverse greenery promoting biophilic design.
02
Constructed with a lightweight polycarbonate outer layer for enhanced light filtration.
03
Integrated 360-degree viewing platform offering expansive landscape views.
04
Curved spiral ramp facilitates smooth vertical circulation throughout the structure.
05
Precast concrete legs minimize ground disruption while providing structural stability.

Tulip Tower presents a blend of natural inspiration and functional design, located strategically to interact with its landscape. Shaped by the forms of an hourglass and a tulip, the tower invites exploration through its vertical elements and lush interiors. Occupants can experience nature firsthand as they ascend through a space defined by greenery and thoughtful pathways, promoting a connection to the environment.

Concept and Form

The design of Tulip Tower revolves around a prominent skeletal structure that rises from the ground. This verticality emphasizes accessibility, guiding visitors along a spiraling ramp that carries them upward amidst abundant plant life. Integrating nature into the structure enhances its visual presence. The design fosters an inviting atmosphere, allowing individuals to experience a sense of calm as they move through the building.

Sustainability and User Engagement

An essential aspect of Tulip Tower is the 360-degree viewing platform at the top. Here, visitors can appreciate the surrounding landscape from a unique vantage point. This area serves not just for observation but as a space for contemplation, allowing for an engaged experience with the geography of the site. The greenery at the tower's core further emphasizes sustainability, creating a biophilic environment that connects users with nature.

Materiality and Structure

Materials play a crucial role in the team’s design choices. Steel is used for the skeletal framework, providing the necessary durability and flexibility for the tower’s design. Polycarbonate elements allow natural light to pour into the space while also contributing to energy efficiency with a solar layer. The outer layer, made of mesh, effectively controls light entry. It supports the internal greenery, promoting a cooling effect throughout the building.

Spatial Configuration

The tower's design incorporates precast concrete legs for stability while limiting disruption to the natural surroundings. This detail maintains a connection to the land. The arrangement of space within the structure encourages occupants to explore and engage with both the architecture and the natural elements present. As visitors ascend, they are surrounded by a mixture of flowing forms and lush plant life, creating an environment that reflects a strong bond between the built and natural worlds.

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

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