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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Community-Centric Cultural Hub

Authors:
Yusuke Kinoshita, Daisuke Sekine
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Community-Centric Cultural Hub
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a biophilic design approach, this cultural hub strategically integrates community spaces with natural elements, serving as a multifunctional center for artistic and social engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a design by subtraction approach to minimize the built footprint and enhance natural landscaping.
02
Integrates biophilic elements that foster a connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
05
Creates a central community garden that serves as a multifunctional gathering space.

### Project Overview

The Nature Culture Hub is located in Cesis, Latvia, adjacent to the Gaujаs National Park. This initiative addresses the growing disconnection between urban development and natural environments, establishing a cultural space that fosters community engagement while promoting ecological principles.

### Spatial Strategy and Integration

The design framework emphasizes a cohesive relationship between urban and natural elements, highlighting the concept of "Nature in City." By minimizing the built footprint through a "design by subtraction" approach, the project creates an environment that prioritizes green spaces and community interaction. Strategically positioned between Cesis's historic Old Town and Ruckas Park, the layout forms a cultural axis that bridges the past and future, enhancing the socio-cultural fabric of the area.

#### Key Functional Areas

The hub comprises dedicated areas for creative and natural functions, including:

- **Creative Functions**: Spaces for artistic activities such as galleries, theaters, and event platforms that aim to enrich local culture.
- **Natural Functions**: Gardens and green spaces that offer respite for both visitors and residents.
- **Mixed-Use Developments**: Structures that encompass residential, commercial, and social housing, facilitating community cohesion and fostering socioeconomic interactions.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. The use of natural wood for structural elements establishes a connection to the surrounding landscape, while glass facades enhance natural lighting and energy efficiency. Additionally, green roofs contribute to insulation and support biodiversity, reinforcing ecological awareness in urban design.

### Design Specifics and Features

The project incorporates several distinctive elements:

- **Nesting Nature Concept**: Landscaping techniques that integrate built structures with greenery, promoting a harmonious relationship between architecture and the ecosystem.
- **Cultural Hub**: Areas designed to attract diverse groups for artistic, educational, and recreational activities, encouraging community interaction.
- **Connectivity**: Walkable paths and green corridors facilitate movement throughout the site, enhancing user experience and engagement.
- **Biophilic Design**: Indoor gardens and green walls embody principles of biophilic design, aiming to improve well-being and environmental quality.
- **Resilience**: The adaptable architectural plan allows spaces to accommodate a variety of cultural and community events, addressing potential environmental changes.

The Nature Culture Hub serves as both an architectural endeavor and a model for future urban developments that prioritize ecological balance and community integration.

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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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