Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Welcoming Community Venue

Author:
Henri Lautamäki
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Welcoming Community Venue

Project in-detail

Bringing together charred wooden shingles and locally sourced natural stone, the design fosters community interaction within a multifunctional venue dedicated to music and cultural events.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles not only enhances durability but also offers a distinct aesthetic resonance tied to local traditions.
02
A unique bent A-frame design maximizes natural light while providing a stylish silhouette that complements the surrounding landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the venue's sustainability and energy efficiency by reducing its carbon footprint.
04
The integration of a Glass Avenue provides a seamless connection between old and new spaces, fostering community interaction.
05
Dedicated areas for local artists encourage cultural exchange and support the creative community within the venue.
The architectural project centered around Connolly's of Leap represents a significant cultural and social endeavor in Leap, Ireland. This venue aims to enhance the local music scene and foster community engagement through thoughtfully designed spaces that cater to various needs. By marrying historical preservation with contemporary architectural practices, this project embodies a strong vision for promoting cultural activities and strengthening community ties.

At its core, Connolly's of Leap is conceived as a versatile space dedicated primarily to music and cultural events. The design cleverly integrates existing structures with new additions, preserving the venue's historical significance while providing modern amenities. This blend of old and new is not just an aesthetic choice; it reflects a commitment to maintaining the village's cultural identity in the face of change. The building's configuration is structured to promote interaction and accessibility, inviting a continuous flow of visitors.

A key feature of the project is the Glass Avenue, a corridor that creates a vital connection between the old and new spaces. This design encourages social interaction, with seating areas and open spaces that accommodate various gatherings. The ambiance is designed to be welcoming, fostering a sense of community and belonging. With areas like the café and bar, the venue serves not just as a performance space but as a communal hub where people can come together, share experiences, and enjoy local culture.

The project also thoughtfully incorporates specialized spaces. Paddy’s Stage is designed to serve as the main performance area, with tiered seating that can adapt to different configurations based on the event type. This flexibility is essential, allowing the venue to host a range of activities, from concerts to smaller acoustic sets. Furthermore, the inclusion of Sam's Bar enhances the overall experience by providing a space for patrons to socialize before and after performances, reinforcing the venue's role as a gathering place.

In addition to music, the development includes a Creative Space and Art Gallery to showcase local artists. This area highlights a commitment to promoting artistic expression and collaboration within the community, allowing emerging artists to engage with a wider audience. By fostering creativity in various forms, the project aims to serve as a catalyst for cultural growth and exchange in Leap.

Materiality in the project holds significant importance. The use of locally sourced natural stone embodies a respect for the region’s architectural heritage, while stainless steel elements introduce a modern touch. Glass is employed not only to create openness but also to enhance natural light, promoting an inviting atmosphere. These choices reflect a careful consideration of sustainability and local craftsmanship, aligning with contemporary architectural approaches that emphasize environmental responsibility.

One of the standout aspects of Connolly’s of Leap is its emphasis on accessibility. The design incorporates features such as ramps, accessible restrooms, and suitable entrances to ensure that all visitors, regardless of ability, can navigate the venue with ease. This commitment to inclusivity is woven into the very fabric of the design, making a clear statement about the project's intention to welcome everyone.

As the project unfolds, it holds promise for revitalizing the local community through cultural engagement. By hosting a diverse array of events and providing spaces that cater to different activities, Connolly’s of Leap is poised to become a significant cultural landmark in the region. The careful integration of architectural ideas and design elements not only respects the venue's historical context but also prepares it for the future.

This project invites exploration and appreciation of its architectural plans, sections, and designs, showcasing a thoughtful approach to building community through space. For further insights into the design and its various elements, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's architectural considerations and the envisioned outcomes that aim to enrich the community's cultural landscape.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16544 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