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Cross Ventilated Shell Structure in Precast Concrete for Visitor Engagement

Authors:
Amal Aga, Hiba Ghori, Navaneeth K S, Prabha Karan
Cross Ventilated Shell Structure in Precast Concrete for Visitor Engagement
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A shell structure enhanced by the golden ratio and designed for optimal cross ventilation utilizes precast concrete to create a visitor center that fosters community engagement and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Shell structure enhances natural airflow and daylight.
02
Golden ratio principles guide the building’s proportions.
03
Integration of a public terrace fosters outdoor community interactions.
04
Use of precast concrete panels allows for efficient construction.
05
Fragmented design elements create visual connections with nature.

The Flamingo Visitor Center is located in a natural area designed to support visitor engagement by providing information and services. With a focus on sustainability and functionality, the center's layout maximizes space efficiency while housing a car park, information center, visitor center, and terrace. The overall design is based on a shell structure that combines visual interest with environmental performance.

Site Organization

The site consists of four main zones, each serving a specific purpose. The car park accommodates vehicles, while the information center offers essential services to visitors. The visitor center features interactive exhibits designed to educate and entertain. Additionally, the terrace provides an outdoor space for social interactions and relaxation. This clear organization allows visitors to move smoothly between areas while fostering a sense of community.

Architectural Concept

At the heart of the design is the shell structure, which serves both as a functional element and a conceptual foundation. The use of the golden ratio informs the proportions and layout, creating a visually pleasing arrangement. This approach draws inspiration from architectural history while maintaining modern sensibilities. The fragmented forms of the building create see-through elements that connect the interior spaces with the outside environment, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Material Consideration

One key material choice includes precast concrete panels. These panels are known for their strength and aesthetic flexibility. Their use contributes to the building's durability while also allowing for quicker construction due to prefabrication methods. Such choices minimize construction waste and support sustainable building practices. The solid weight of the concrete offers a sense of stability, ensuring the structure remains resilient against the elements.

Design Details

Spatial organization includes important functional areas such as an information center with a reception, a waiting area, and a gift shop located on the ground floor for ease of access. The public terrace encourages outdoor activities that foster social interaction, helping the center function as a community hub. Large openings in the fragmented design let in natural light, creating a pleasant atmosphere inside. The way light plays across the concrete surfaces adds a dynamic quality, making the Flamingo Visitor Center an inviting destination.

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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.

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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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