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Charred Wooden Shingles Create a Coastal Retreat Blending Nature and Functionality

Author:
Yu Chen
Charred Wooden Shingles Create a Coastal Retreat Blending Nature and Functionality
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Using charred wooden shingles and large glass facades, this coastal retreat harmonizes with its environment while providing an intimate space for artists and poets to explore creativity and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features large glass facades to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding coastline.
04
Designed with private terraces for individual reflection and connection to nature.
05
Includes flexible communal spaces for artistic collaboration and community engagement.

The architectural project "Between Wind and Sea" is situated on a coastal site with a deliberate focus on creating an environment conducive to artistic expression. This project serves a dual function: it provides accommodation for artists and poets while also facilitating communal gatherings and exhibitions. The design integrates multiple hut types, common spaces, and a communal dining area, all oriented toward the natural landscape.

The layout consists of single and double bed huts, as well as a larger four-person hut. These residential spaces are intentionally designed to foster both solitude and community engagement among users. Each unit features a private terrace, allowing for personal reflection amidst views of the wind and sea. The arrangement promotes a seamless flow between public and private areas, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere suitable for creativity.

The architectural design employs modern materials such as concrete, glass, wood, and metal, which enhance both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the project. The use of large glass facades allows natural light to permeate interior spaces while providing visual continuity with the external environment. The massing and orientation of the structures minimize exposure to harsh coastal winds, thereby optimizing the natural conditions for inhabitants.

Unique Aspects of the Design
What sets "Between Wind and Sea" apart is its emphasis on connectivity with the environment. The layout is not merely functional but is crafted to facilitate artistic inspiration through the spatial relationship with the surrounding nature. Each hut’s design encourages introspection while maintaining access to communal spaces, allowing for collaborative work and inspiration. This relationship between individual and communal spaces fosters a supportive creative community.

The design also incorporates sustainable principles by orienting the buildings to harness natural breezes for ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. This approach not only enhances comfort but aligns with a growing emphasis on sustainability in architecture. The thoughtful distribution of paths allows for easy navigation across the site while preserving the integrity of personal and shared environments.

Integration of Space and Functionality
The project is structured around distinct functional zones: the residential huts, exhibition areas, and communal facilities. The careful separation of these spaces allows for a balance between private retreat and social interaction. The common rooms and dining facilities are designed to encourage gathering, thus reinforcing the social fabric of the artistic community. The exhibition room is flexible, allowing for various displays and activities, making it a focal point for artistic expression and shared experiences among artists.

This architecture embodies a modern approach that respects traditional artistic practices while promoting evolving ideas within a communal context. The overall organization and design ethos reflect an understanding of the subtle dynamics of creativity, offering an environment that is both nurturing and stimulating.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide further insights into the thoughtful approach taken in its development. It is an invitation for engagement and reflection on contemporary architectural practices that prioritize both individual and collective experiences.

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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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