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Circular Design Embracing Natural Light with Sustainable Timber and Solar Panels

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Circular Design Embracing Natural Light with Sustainable Timber and Solar Panels
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With a circular layout that maximizes natural light, the residence employs sustainable timber construction and integrates solar panels, creating a flexible living space centered around a vibrant garden.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central garden enhances natural ventilation and daylight throughout the living spaces.
02
Sliding panels provide flexible space arrangements for various activities and needs.
03
Circular layout promotes communal interaction while maintaining individual privacy.
04
Incorporation of rainwater harvesting supports sustainable water management practices.
05
Use of charred wooden shingles reduces maintenance and increases durability.

### Overview

Located within an urban context, the design emphasizes a contemporary take on residential living, drawing from historical housing models such as the Roman Domus and the Chinese Shiyuyan. The project incorporates central courtyards to integrate interior and exterior environments, highlighting a commitment to both functional and sustainable living spaces. The layout is meticulously designed to enhance connectivity while providing privacy, promoting an adaptable living experience.

### Spatial Configuration and User Adaptability

The design utilizes a circular layout that optimizes movement and interaction among occupants. A central courtyard serves as both a garden and a source of natural light and ventilation, fostering a harmonized living environment. Sliding panels within the layout allow users to adjust spatial divisions, enabling a flexible configuration that caters to communal activities and personal solitude. This organization not only enhances the overall livability but also encourages a balance between social engagement and private retreat.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette is carefully chosen to support sustainability and a connection with the natural environment. Key materials include:

- **Wood**: Used for roofing, walls, and flooring, offering warmth and durability while aligning with the natural setting.
- **Steel**: Incorporated in structural components for resilience and aesthetic value.
- **Glass**: Employed in windows and sliding panels to maximize light and provide visual links to the outdoor landscape.
- **Solar Panels**: Integrated into the roof design for energy generation, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainable practices.
- **Waterproof Membrane**: Enhances the structure's longevity by preventing moisture intrusion.
- **Acoustic Ceiling Tiles**: Improve indoor sound quality, contributing to acoustic comfort.

Additionally, features such as a rainwater harvesting system and energy-efficient appliances minimize the ecological footprint and promote a sustainable lifestyle. The circular form not only serves aesthetic purposes but also facilitates natural airflow and optimal daylight penetration, ensuring a comfortable living environment throughout the year. The integration of advanced technologies with natural systems exemplifies a commitment to efficiency and sustainable living.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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