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Charred Shingles and Vertical Gardens Enhance Urban Community Wellness Spaces

Authors:
William Lentjes, Rebecca Robinson, Michael Phaff
Charred Shingles and Vertical Gardens Enhance Urban Community Wellness Spaces
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and equipped with advanced air purification systems, the design fosters community wellness by integrating lush vertical gardens and multifunctional spaces in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates advanced air purification technology to improve indoor air quality.
03
Features vertical gardens that contribute to biodiversity and community interaction.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and ventilation.

# Analytical Report on the Architectural Design Project: "Liberated Awareness"

## Conceptual Framework

Located in a dynamic urban environment, the project aims to create a space that fosters community interaction while prioritizing ethical and sustainable architectural practices. The design draws from a framework of ethics, technology, and aesthetics, facilitating an environment conducive to social engagement and environmental stewardship. This multifaceted approach is intended to enhance both individual and collective user experiences within the space.

### Ethical Framework

A core aspect of the design is its emphasis on sustainable and community-oriented development. The ethical considerations of the project highlight the role architecture can play in promoting social responsibility, shaping human interactions, and encouraging positive behavior within urban settings. By prioritizing community needs, the project underscores the importance of designing spaces that enhance well-being and connectivity among users.

### Technological Integration

The incorporation of advanced technology is designed to improve user experience and environmental quality. Features such as air purification systems with HEPA filters and VOC filtering mechanisms demonstrate a commitment to health and well-being. An Air Purifying Tower, specifically designed to address urban air quality challenges, exemplifies the integration of innovative solutions to enhance the living environment.

## Spatial Organization and Materiality

### Spatial Strategy

The project exhibits a well-defined spatial hierarchy that incorporates open access areas, individual living units, and communal facilities. The layout encourages interaction and accessibility, with designated spaces including a community room for social gatherings, private patios for personal respite, and reception areas for seamless visitor engagement. This strategic organization reinforces the balance between public and private zones, fostering a cohesive community dynamic.

### Material Choice

The selection of materials plays a pivotal role in shaping the project's identity. Wood is utilized for both structural and aesthetic purposes, emphasizing a connection to nature and sustainability. Glass elements facilitate natural light flow while enhancing transparency and visibility of interior spaces. Concrete is employed in foundational elements, ensuring durability and resilience. Additionally, the air purifying components reflect a commitment to technological enhancement aimed at improving indoor air quality.

## Site Integration and Engagement

The design recognizes the significance of its geographic context, integrating the project into the existing urban fabric. Urban maps included in the analysis highlight key landmarks, pedestrian routes, and green spaces, underscoring the design's responsiveness to its surroundings. The concept of an active public zone not only encourages community interactions but also enhances accessibility to the site, ultimately fostering a stronger community presence.

## Unique Design Features

1. **Active Public Zone**: The project features an active public zone that mirrors and engages with surrounding urban forms, promoting communal activities and interaction.

2. **Air Purification System**: The innovative air purification towers are a distinguishing characteristic, directly addressing urban health issues by prioritizing air quality.

3. **Social Interaction Spaces**: Elements designed for communal gathering enhance the potential for social engagement, critical for enriching urban life.

4. **Sustainable Practices**: The use of solar panels and environmentally-conscious materials aligns with modern architectural trends aimed at reducing ecological footprints.

This detailed approach to design reflects a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between architecture and community, with the intent to create spaces that promote well-being and sustainability in an urban context.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
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