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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Solutions Create Sustainable Living Spaces in Harmony with Nature

Author:
Amir Ali Ebadi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Solutions Create Sustainable Living Spaces in Harmony with Nature
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and passive solar strategies, the design fosters an environmentally sensitive living space that encourages a deep connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic warmth.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates geothermal heating systems for energy efficiency.
04
Includes dedicated mindfulness spaces designed for solitude and reflection.
05
Integrates outdoor corridors that promote community interaction and engagement.

### Project Overview
The "Earth Is Alive..." project is situated within a natural landscape that emphasizes a connection between architecture and the environment. It is designed to reflect themes of sustainability, meditation, and historical context, aiming to create a cohesive narrative that enhances the relationship between occupants and nature.

### Spatial Composition and Materiality
The design incorporates a range of interconnected spaces, including communal gardens, meditation areas, and residential units, which serve diverse functions within a unified environment. Key materials utilized in the construction include natural stone, glass, and wood. Natural stone is employed for walls and meditation spaces, providing a tactile link to the earth. Expansive glass openings facilitate the ingress of natural light, fostering a connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape. Wood is used in structural and decorative elements to introduce warmth and organic texture. Additionally, geothermal systems are utilized as a sustainable heating solution, reflecting a commitment to ecological design practices.

### Sustainability and User Experience
Sustainability is a central theme, demonstrated through the integration of geothermal energy and solar power, alongside water features that enhance the environment. The layout encourages a blend of personal reflection and community interaction, with the “Path of Nature” serving as an experiential corridor that aligns with the project's axis. Private residences are thoughtfully positioned to allow inhabitants an intimate experience with nature, fostering mindfulness and tranquility. Indoor spaces such as the "Chamber of Silence" promote emotional connections, guiding users through contrasting ambiances from darker, introspective areas to those bathed in natural light, ultimately supporting a holistic engagement with the environment.

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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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