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Central Atrium Emphasizing Natural Light Within a Charred Wooden Shingle Exterior

Central Atrium Emphasizing Natural Light Within a Charred Wooden Shingle Exterior
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The charred wooden shingle facade captures the essence of Tartu's landscape, while the central atrium, designed to harness natural light, creates an expansive gathering space for community engagement and cultural activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
A central atrium facilitates natural ventilation and optimal daylighting throughout the structure.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for lightweight structural integrity and sustainability.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for flexible interior layouts and promotes spatial interaction.
05
Landscaped terraces create outdoor spaces that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

## Architectural Analysis Report: KROSSKULTUR – Tartu Cultural Centre, Estonia

### Overview

KROSSKULTUR is situated in Tartu, Estonia, and is designed to serve as a cultural centre that reflects the city's educational and cultural identity. The project emphasizes community engagement and interaction, aiming to create a space where diverse cultural activities can thrive. The architectural approach focuses on establishing a strong connection with the site's geographical and historical context, while offering a venue that facilitates artistic expression and social interaction.

### Spatial Configuration and Interaction

The design features a series of interconnected spaces that facilitate a fluid transition between public and private areas. This dynamic spatial organization includes exhibition halls, auditoriums, and educational facilities, fostering an intuitive flow for users. The central atrium serves as a multifunctional hub, designed to host events and promote vertical interaction through skylights that enhance natural lighting and ventilation. Outdoor landscaped areas further extend the cultural experience, providing venues for performances and social gatherings.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Features

The material palette of KROSSKULTUR is carefully curated to align with both functional and aesthetic requirements. The extensive use of wood promotes a warm atmosphere, while concrete structures provide durability and support innovative design. Large glass elements maximize light exposure and visibility, creating an inviting environment. The integration of metal accents contributes to modern aesthetics and environmental resilience. Additionally, the project emphasizes ecological sustainability through landscaped parks and outdoor gathering areas, reinforcing Tartu's commitment to enhancing its green spaces.

### Functional Program

The program of KROSSKULTUR is designed to accommodate a wide array of cultural activities, including multiple exhibition zones for art displays, performance spaces for both indoor and outdoor cultural events, and educational facilities aimed at community engagement. Visitor amenities such as cafés and retail spaces enrich the user experience, making the centre a comprehensive cultural destination.

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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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