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Charred Timber Screens and Communal Landscapes in Compact Urban Living

Charred Timber Screens and Communal Landscapes in Compact Urban Living
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Constructed with charred timber screens and designed around a shared courtyard, the project reinterprets the traditional workers' cottage concept to foster community living in an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred timber screens for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Integrates a shared courtyard to promote community interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Features passive ventilation strategies tailored to the subtropical climate.
05
Adopts a modular construction approach for rapid assembly and cost-effectiveness.

## Overview
Located in the West End suburb of Brisbane, Australia, the New Workers Cottage project addresses the pressing demand for affordable housing while fostering community connections and environmental sustainability. The design is a contemporary interpretation of traditional workers' cottages, focusing on efficient use of space and materials to promote both individual well-being and social interaction among residents.

### Spatial Arrangement
An open-plan layout characterizes the design of the cottages, which comprises four interconnected units arranged around a shared courtyard. This configuration encourages communal activities and interaction among residents, enhancing neighborhood engagement. The design also optimizes natural ventilation and light, which is critical in Brisbane's subtropical climate.

### Material Selection
The material palette is carefully chosen to balance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and sustainability. Hardwood timber is utilized for structural frames and interior finishes, offering warmth and a natural feel. Colorbond steel serves as the roofing and external cladding material, chosen for its durability and low maintenance. Concrete blocks provide stability for foundational elements, while expansive glass windows and sliding doors facilitate a strong connection to the outdoor environment. Additionally, timber screens contribute to privacy and shading, enhancing the overall efficiency and visual identity of the cottages.

### Community and Sustainability
The design emphasizes a community-oriented approach, with the central courtyard serving as a focal point for shared experiences. A commitment to sustainability is evident in the incorporation of renewable materials and energy-efficient strategies, including natural ventilation and passive shading techniques. Modular construction methods are employed to ensure a cost-effective and expedited assembly process without compromising quality. Furthermore, the architecture reflects a respectful nod to the historical significance of workers' cottages, integrating heritage and modern needs in a cohesive manner.

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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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