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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Cultural Hub Emphasizing Heritage and Community Engagement

Authors:
Diana-maria Lazar, Carmen-mihaela Placinta
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Cultural Hub Emphasizing Heritage and Community Engagement
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With a façade of charred wooden shingles and a structure crafted from cross-laminated timber, the development serves as a museum and guest house, bridging local heritage with modern functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation within the space.
04
A central courtyard integrates landscape features with community gathering areas.
05
The renovation preserves historical elements while adapting for modern use.

The Omuli project encompasses the transformation of a former school building into a multifaceted cultural venue, incorporating a Museum of the Horse alongside a guest house. This architectural endeavor emphasizes a balance between historical conservation and contemporary functionality, making it significant within its geographical context. The design includes the restoration of the existing school structure and the integration of a newly constructed wing, collectively creating a space that fosters community engagement and cultural appreciation.

Architecturally, the project honors the site's heritage while adapting it for modern usage. The original school building's exterior features are retained, reflecting traditional architectural aesthetics, with enhancements made to the interior for functionality as both guest accommodations and exhibit space. The new extension incorporates elements inspired by local agricultural and equestrian vernacular, resulting in a cohesive design identity that respects its surroundings.

Preservation of Historical Integrity
A critical aspect of the Omuli project is its dedication to preserving the historical integrity of the existing school building. The original façade elements, such as windows and doors, are restored and repurposed, maintaining the time-honored appearance while optimizing the interior layout. This approach emphasizes respect for the cultural narrative of the site, enabling educational programs and exhibitions that inform visitors about the significance of the local equestrian culture.

The new extension diverges from traditional forms while remaining contextually relevant. Designed to serve as an exhibition space, library, and relaxation area with a spa, this contemporary structure features a straightforward aesthetic that enhances its functionality. The roof design nods to horse stables, reinforcing the thematic connection while ensuring visual harmony with the historical building.

Functional Versatility and Community Engagement
The Omuli project excels in functional versatility, serving as a hub for cultural and recreational activities. The interplay between the restored school and the new extension generates dynamic spaces that encourage exploration and interaction. The guest house component provides accommodations, and the exhibition area highlights the significance of horses in local culture, offering educational programming that attracts diverse audiences.

Architectural details, such as the integration of natural light through strategically placed windows and the incorporation of outdoor spaces, enhance the visitor experience. The surrounding gardens feature local flora, promoting sustainability and creating serene environments for leisure and social interaction. This thoughtful landscaping complements the architecture, integrating the built environment with the natural landscape.

The combination of historical preservation, functional adaptability, and community focus sets the Omuli project apart. The commitment to honoring local heritage while providing modern amenities showcases a comprehensive understanding of the architectural needs within the cultural context.

To gain deeper insights into the Omuli project, including its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. The details found therein elucidate the architectural vision behind this transformative endeavor.

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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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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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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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