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Curated Sanctuary with Emotional Colors and Symbolic Rock Garden

Authors:
Laura Kupka, Bjarki Snaer Smarason, Birta Run Armannsdottir, Suzan Amato
Curated Sanctuary with Emotional Colors and Symbolic Rock Garden
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Defined by its symbolic rock garden and a palette of emotional colors, the design serves as a virtual sanctuary that promotes mental well-being and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Defined by a limit of 111 objects to foster mental clarity.
02
Utilizes a color palette based on psychological principles to evoke specific emotions.
03
Incorporates a symbolic rock garden as the focal point of the space.
04
Features a glass pool to enhance visual engagement and reflection.
05
Encourages intentionality in object selection to support self-discovery.

111 is a design concept that reimagines the experience of home within a digital framework. It is designed to offer an escape from the distractions of daily life. The virtual space is intentionally crafted to create a sense of calm and clarity, focusing on the well-being of its users. By limiting the number of objects and utilizing principles from color psychology, the space promotes mindfulness and self-reflection.

Conceptual Framework

The foundation of the design lies in the idea that while not everything is necessary, there are numerous possibilities for exploration. This principle guides the choice to limit the objects within the home to 111, a number supported by research on mental well-being. This limitation encourages thoughtful selection, leading to an environment that is carefully curated to enhance tranquility and focus.

Color Dynamics

A standout component of the design is its color palette, influenced by psychological insights about how colors affect emotions. The home features a gradient of colors that aim to evoke feelings of calmness and clarity. This approach allows the environment to adapt to the emotional states of its users, creating a personalized experience within the virtual space.

Symbolic Elements

At the center of the design is a rock-based garden, which serves as the symbolic heart of the home. This element connects the space to nature, providing a reminder of tranquility amid the modern environment. Alongside this, a glass pool enhances the space, offering visual interest and inviting moments of reflection.

Curated Experience

The selection of 111 objects plays a crucial role in shaping a harmonious living environment. Each object is chosen for its purpose and ability to contribute to relaxation and self-discovery. This intentional focus on minimalism ensures that the space is free from clutter, allowing for a clear mental state that supports peace and presence.

The design intricately combines color, light, and form, creating an atmosphere that encourages introspection and promotes well-being. It reflects a contemporary understanding of how architecture can enhance daily life through thoughtful design choices.

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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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