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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Plastic Create Engaging Urban Spaces

Authors:
Daniel Rodriguez, Luis Marenco, Allan Abrantes
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Plastic Create Engaging Urban Spaces
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Recycled plastic panels and charred wooden shingles form an interactive structure that fosters community engagement and sustainable urban living in downtown Oslo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled plastic panels are used for enhanced sustainability and reduced environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and protection against weathering.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural stability while allowing for flexible interior spaces.
04
An integrated rainwater harvesting system supports eco-friendly water management practices.
05
Vertical terraces facilitate social interactions and maximize green space in an urban setting.

## Overview

The Light Roast project operates within the metropolitan contexts of Oslo, Norway, and Copenhagen, Denmark, focusing on the interactive experiences of individuals in urban environments. The initiative aims to analyze and enhance how users navigate these spaces through contemporary materials and an understanding of public engagement. By leveraging the unique characteristics of both cities, the project seeks to redefine the relationship between architecture and urban life.

### Urban Context and Engagement

Oslo is prominently recognized for its emphasis on sustainable urban livability, making it a particularly relevant setting for exploring green integration amidst urban density. The design reflects Oslo's environmental ethos while fostering a dialogue between architecture and nature. In contrast, Copenhagen exemplifies human-centered urban design, where public spaces prioritize interaction and accessibility. The project aspires to deepen the understanding of user dynamics in these urban frameworks, contributing to a refined approach to public architectural interactions.

### Material Innovation and Sustainability

The project employs a selection of innovative materials to reinforce its sustainability objectives and architectural integrity. Recycled plastic panels are incorporated to enhance structural viability while promoting eco-friendliness. A shipping container framework serves as the foundational support of the structure, providing both robustness and a distinctive aesthetic. The use of steel rods and structural steel minimizes environmental impact due to their strength and durability. Plywood is strategically selected for its lightweight qualities in flooring and stair systems, while glass panels are used extensively to maximize natural light and create a visual connection with the bustling urban landscape.

### Architectural Elements and Functional Design

Key architectural elements are designed to enhance user experience and promote engagement. The structure emphasizes vertical circulation, featuring a staircase that spirals upward to provide varied perspectives of the surroundings. Transparency is prioritized through strategically placed glass elements, enabling natural light inflow and fostering an open relationship between interior spaces and the city outside. Communal terraces and balconies are incorporated to facilitate social interaction, offering spaces for retreat and engagement amid the urban atmosphere. Additionally, a water collection system is integrated into the design to manage rainwater for reuse, aligning with the project's sustainability goals and enhancing its ecological responsibility.

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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.

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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