Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Corten Steel Facade Integrating Recycled Materials for Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Amanda Lavond
Corten Steel Facade Integrating Recycled Materials for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Reclaimed bricks and Corten steel unite to create a sustainable living environment that fosters community in the heart of New York City.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed bricks from local demolished buildings are used in the façade, promoting material reuse.
02
A distinctive Corten steel exterior provides durability and a modern aesthetic while resisting corrosion.
03
Rooftop gardens are designed to enhance biodiversity and support urban wildlife habitats.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems optimize water management for landscaping and utilities.
05
The design includes spacious communal areas that facilitate social interaction among residents.

The Pair-a-Site project located at 225 W 28th St in New York City combines architectural innovation with sustainable urban living. The design focuses on creating a residential environment that emphasizes connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces while addressing the growing need for green infrastructure in densely populated areas. The project incorporates a variety of unit types, accommodating diverse demographics and promoting a sense of community within the urban context.

Integration of Green Infrastructure A key aspect of this project is the use of green spaces throughout the design. Rooftop gardens and planter boxes are strategically placed to encourage outdoor activity and provide residents with access to nature. These features contribute to improved air quality and promote biodiversity in the urban landscape. Incorporating rainwater harvesting systems allows the building to manage stormwater effectively, enhancing sustainability while reducing the overall environmental impact.

Unique Design Approaches Pair-a-Site employs a distinctive architectural approach by reusing materials from existing structures. The design incorporates repurposed bricks and other components, reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy in construction. The façade is characterized by a combination of materials including brick, Corten steel, and glass, creating a visually appealing yet functional exterior. Large windows enhance natural light in living spaces while fostering transparency between the building and its surroundings. This approach distinguishes Pair-a-Site from typical residential developments by promoting resource efficiency and community engagement.

Functional Diversity and Community Engagement The project’s diversity in unit typologies caters to varied resident needs, supporting a mixed-use environment. This promotes social interaction and community-building, fundamental aspects of urban living. Bicycle storage facilities encourage sustainable transportation, aligning with contemporary urban planning goals. The thoughtful layout and architectural details help to create a cohesive living experience, where residents can take advantage of both private and shared spaces.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the street-level and communal aspects of the Pair-a-Site project, readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation for comprehensive insights into its innovative design principles.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy