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Charred Shingles Complement Steel Frame in Community Observation Structure

Charred Shingles Complement Steel Frame in Community Observation Structure
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The integration of charred wooden shingles with a robust steel frame creates a visually striking contrast, enhancing the observation spaces designed to foster community engagement and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create efficient structural support and thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for unique spatial experiences and visual connections.
04
Large cantilevered sections extend usable space while minimizing ground impact.
05
Multiple vantage points are integrated throughout the structure, encouraging exploration and observation.

### Overview

"Observances: An American Diptych" is located within an industrial landscape and aims to explore the relationship between perception and interaction. The design operates on the concept of a diptych, where two distinct yet interconnected segments create a dialogue about observation as both a physical act and a reflective process. Through this framework, the project seeks to enhance visitor engagement with the environment, encouraging both introspection and active interaction.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The spatial organization is characterized by interlocking volumes that defy conventional architectural forms. A series of voids and cantilevers facilitates dynamic outdoor areas, balconies, and vantage points, allowing for diverse views of the surrounding landscape. A central core organizes functional spaces, serving as the main axis for circulation and community engagement. This approach emphasizes shared experiences and fosters a sense of connection among users.

The design incorporates significant visual elements, such as vibrant red accents and transparent features, to direct movement and highlight key pathways. These design choices establish a visual hierarchy that guides users through the space, creating an environment conducive to both intimate encounters and broader social interactions.

### Materiality and Environmental Context

The project's material palette includes steel, glass, concrete, and wood, each selected for its functional and aesthetic properties. Steel serves as the structural framework, reflecting modern industrial contexts. Glass is employed extensively to enhance transparency and visual continuity between interiors and the external environment. Concrete provides a stable base for the building, while wood is utilized in select interior spaces to add warmth and intimacy.

This combination of materials not only addresses durability but also supports a dialogue between the structure and its environment, highlighting the significance of context in architectural design. By employing these materials thoughtfully, the project underscores the interaction between solid and void, creating a meaningful relationship with its surroundings.

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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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