Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Curved Copper Roof and Charred Wood Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Forest

Authors:
Roberto De Marchi, Anna Pezzetta
Curved Copper Roof and Charred Wood Create a Sustainable Retreat in the Forest
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
A curved copper roof and charred wood finishes define a sustainable retreat that seamlessly integrates with its forest surroundings, promoting wellness through thoughtfully designed communal and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof design enhances natural rainwater management.
02
Charred wood shingles provide fire resistance and durability.
03
A circular layout promotes both privacy and community interaction.
04
Local materials contribute to the building's low ecological footprint.
05
Integrated fruit garden encourages user engagement with nature.

### Overview

Located within a dense forest, the project is a single-storey building designed to engage with its natural surroundings while providing a tranquil retreat. The concept draws on the metaphor of a bird’s nest, prioritizing both security and openness, thereby fostering a close connection with the landscape. The orientation and layout of the structure invite users to absorb the rich biodiversity present, facilitating moments of mindfulness and introspection.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout employs a circular formation to promote fluid movement and a sense of community within the space. The central structure houses dedicated areas for therapy, relaxation, and communal activities, all aimed at enhancing well-being. Complementary outdoor pavilions offer intimate settings for meditation, while strategically placed pathways link various functions, including a sauna and tea room, contributing to a cohesive experience. A pond serves as a natural focal point, encouraging interaction with the landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials chosen for construction emphasize sustainability and local craftsmanship. Copper roofing is utilized for its durability and aesthetic appeal, developing a patina that reflects natural weathering. Local wood beams contribute warmth and authenticity, while straw roofing in the tea room provides effective insulation. Natural clay plaster ensures good air quality, and burnt wood finishes in the sauna enhance tactile experiences. Additional features, such as radiant floor heating and energy-efficient windows, underline the commitment to sustainability and user comfort, incorporating practices that support local ecosystems and communities.

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

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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