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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façade Create a Dynamic Learning Environment for Tattoo Artistry

Authors:
Chin Jung Lin, Rong Rong Chang, Snow Chen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façade Create a Dynamic Learning Environment for Tattoo Artistry
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A glass façade harmonizes with charred wooden shingles, creating a transparent yet private space that fosters learning and engagement in the art of tattooing.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central staircase acts as a sculptural element while enhancing vertical connectivity between floors.
02
The integration of charred wooden shingles creates a distinct aesthetic while promoting fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and reduce construction waste.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for expansive interior spaces while maintaining an intimate atmosphere.
05
Large glass expanses facilitate natural light and visual connectivity with the surrounding urban environment.

## Overview
Located in Melbourne, Australia, the Melbourne Tattoo Academy aims to reshape the understanding and appreciation of tattoo culture within an urban setting. The design addresses the duality between public expression and professional practice, creating an educational space that encourages dialogue and learning. Key architectural strategies reflect this complexity, combining visibility with areas of personal reflection to enhance the cultural significance of tattoo artistry.

### Spatial Configuration and Interaction
The building features a dynamic architectural form characterized by a blend of curvilinear and angular geometries, mirroring the intricacies of tattoo design. The first and second floors host varied functions, including workshops, a café, and presentation spaces, fostering efficient circulation and interaction among users. A central staircase serves as a focal point, guiding visitors through the academy while promoting social engagement. This sculptural element is designed not only for function but also as a statement of artistic expression.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette has been carefully curated to enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the building. Glass is utilized extensively to create a sense of transparency and openness, allowing natural light to imbue the interior, while wood elements add warmth and comfort, resonating with the tactile nature of tattooing. Concrete and metal provide structural integrity and a contemporary architectural language. Sustainable design practices are integrated through the use of natural materials and energy-efficient systems, contributing to environmental stewardship. The surrounding landscape incorporates greenery that integrates with urban hardscapes, enhancing the overall learning 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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