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Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Urban Connectivity in a Multifunctional Civic Space

Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Urban Connectivity in a Multifunctional Civic Space
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic character, the design integrates a public library, residential units, and recreational spaces within a multifunctional urban square that fosters community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and spatial dynamics.
04
Includes a dedicated public library within the mixed-use facility promoting community access.
05
Integrates green terraces to foster urban biodiversity and recreational opportunities.

### Overview

Located in a contemporary urban setting, the redesigned central square seeks to meet the diverse social and functional requirements of the community. This initiative aims to enhance the usability of the square, creating a lively environment that serves both residents and visitors throughout the day. The layout incorporates elements that reflect the historical context of the site while addressing modern needs for engagement and interaction.

### Spatial Organization

The reconfigured City Square spans **14,000 square meters**, designed to host a variety of outdoor activities and social interactions. Central to this new urban fabric are areas intended for recreation and public engagement, featuring cafes, restaurants, and facilities that cater to a broad demographic. The inclusion of a **26-floor high-rise building** not only adds verticality to the skyline but also houses a public library, city administration offices, and residential units. Specific components include:
- An **11,800 square meter** library on the lower levels, designed to bridge traditional library functions with contemporary cultural needs.
- Approximately **6,000 square meters** dedicated to city administrative offices.
- Upper floors featuring **16,000 square meters** of apartments and offices to increase residential capacity.

Additionally, a **10,000 square meter** exhibition hall and multifunctional urban space supports diverse events, fostering cultural integration within the community.

### Materiality and Infrastructure

The selection of materials in this project underscores a commitment to sustainability and visual coherence. While specific materials were not detailed, the use of:
- **Reinforced concrete** for structural elements,
- **Glass** for facades to enhance natural lighting,
- **Steel** for framework and detailing,
is anticipated to contribute to both durability and aesthetic appeal.

The design also focuses on improving transportation infrastructure around the square, including dedicated bicycle lanes, car parks, and pedestrian-friendly pathways. A six-meter-wide sidewalk enhances safety and accessibility, facilitating movement and interaction across the space.

The overall design emphasizes visual connectivity and integration with local landmarks, such as the existing City Hall, contributing to a cohesive urban experience.

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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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