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Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Mass Define an Ecological Embrace in Scenic Waterfront Living

Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Mass Define an Ecological Embrace in Scenic Waterfront Living
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Characterized by charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design elevates waterfront living while maintaining a strong commitment to ecological sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and views.
04
Elevated construction reduces environmental impact on the landscape.
05
Native plant integration supports local biodiversity and ecological balance.

### Project Overview
Located within a lush landscape characterized by dense vegetation and waterways, the design emphasizes ecological sustainability and interaction with nature. The intent is to create a structure that harmonizes with its environment while fostering communal engagement and individual exploration within a tranquil setting.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout features a geometric arrangement that balances symmetry and asymmetry, reflecting the natural contours of the site. Open terraces and private nooks are incorporated to accommodate a variety of activities, supporting both social interaction and personal contemplation. Elevated design strategies minimize land disturbance and provide observation points for local wildlife, enhancing user engagement with the environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A careful selection of materials reinforces the project's themes of sustainability and integration with nature. Wood is utilized for its warmth and reduced carbon footprint, while concrete offers durability for foundational elements. Large glass sections facilitate transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces, flooding interiors with natural light, and enhancing the ambiance. Additionally, metal components are incorporated for structural integrity, and natural landscaping strategies leverage native plants to promote local biodiversity. The design also includes rainwater collection systems, natural ventilation, and passive solar orientation, underscoring the commitment to environmental stewardship.

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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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