Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Valerio Piccolo, Andrea Piccolo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Community Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the retreat integrates seamlessly into its rural landscape while offering flexible spaces for meditation, wellness, and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and rapid assembly.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes an artificial lake to promote biodiversity and serve as a recreational element.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that adapt for wellness activities and community gatherings.

## Project Overview
The project entails the adaptive restoration of an existing barn structure located in a rural area characterized by rich biodiversity and diverse topography. The primary intent is to preserve the barn's historical features while integrating modern functionalities that enhance usability. The design approach aims to honor the historical significance of the site, influenced by the aesthetics of Italian gardens, particularly reminiscent of the Garden of Ninfa.

## Spatial Strategy
The site layout is meticulously developed to blend natural elements with constructed spaces, creating distinct zones for various activities. Private zones are designated for individual reflection, marked by boundaries that ensure tranquility. Areas for meditation and yoga are incorporated to promote wellness and mindfulness, encouraging users to engage with the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, the inclusion of nature trails and a children's playground facilitates recreational activities and ecological interaction. A fruit garden is also integrated, emphasizing principles of sustainability and self-sufficiency, while an artificial lake enhances aesthetic appeal and supports local wildlife habitats.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The project utilizes a carefully selected palette of materials that reflect both aesthetic qualities and sustainability. Stone is employed for structural integrity and to maintain the barn's historical character, while wood is utilized for structural elements and creating inviting interiors. Glass is incorporated to maximize natural light and reduce energy consumption. The inclusion of solar panels underscores the commitment to renewable energy, while concrete provides structural stability for utility spaces. This strategic material selection not only supports the restoration efforts but also reinforces energy efficiency throughout the facility.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy