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Clay Walls and Water Collection Within an Integrated Community Workspace

Author:
Gaetan Brunet
Clay Walls and Water Collection Within an Integrated Community Workspace
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Constructed with clay walls and supported by a large roof that incorporates innovative rainwater collection, the building serves as a flexible workspace designed to foster collaboration and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large roof structure designed for effective rainwater collection Two-story digital library featuring free-formed clay walls Transversal meeting pipe offering expansive views and informal gathering space Semi-isolated working stations promoting concentration and focus Adjacent orchard providing a contemplative outdoor environment.

The architectural project presents a thoughtful response to modern working environments, focusing on user comfort and adaptability amid climate change and technological progress. Located near the Bordeaux lakes, the building aims to create a productive space for today’s workforce. Its design centers around a large roof structure that offers protection from the elements while also incorporating sustainable features, such as rainwater collection.

Roof Structure

A significant aspect of the design is the large roof, which takes inspiration from local warehouse architecture. This roof serves multiple purposes, providing essential protection from rain and sun while managing water efficiently. Its slight elevation on one side allows for effective rainwater channeling, which integrates passive sustainability features into the overall design. The roof's expansive presence defines the building’s identity and functionality.

Spatial Configuration

The layout consists of interconnected spaces that encourage flexibility and user interaction. It features low-cost yet sophisticated areas that facilitate movement throughout the building. Individual working stations are organized in an alley, providing semi-isolated spaces that promote focus and concentration. At the same time, they maintain visual connections to the landscape outside, addressing the practical needs of modern work environments.

Functional Zones

Distinct areas within the design enhance productivity and collaborative work. The two-story digital library, designed with free-formed clay walls, breaks traditional shapes and allows for dynamic uses of the space. This library acts as a hub for information and communication, reflecting the intention to create an inclusive environment. The transversal meeting pipe connects different sections of the building, offering expansive views and informal gathering spaces finished in a calming electric blue tone.

External Integration

Integration with the surroundings is further reflected in the orchard adjacent to the kitchen area. This outdoor space fosters contemplation and social interaction, while the kitchen facilitates casual dining that bridges indoor and outdoor experiences. A duckboard platform connects key areas of the building and provides vistas of both the workspace and nature outside, enhancing the overall user experience.

The design emphasizes functional adaptability and a commitment to environmental considerations, demonstrating thoughtful space arrangements that support a vibrant community under a unified roof.

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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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