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Curved Forms and Central Beams in Affordable Urban Living

Authors:
Paula Ramírez, Briseida Villagrán, Brandon Pérez
Curved Forms and Central Beams in Affordable Urban Living
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The combination of curved forms and central beam structures creates a cohesive living space that encourages community interaction while providing affordable housing for young professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each apartment unit features a circular central beam, enhancing open space and flexibility.
02
Terraces utilize the rooftops of lower units, providing private outdoor areas without additional structural needs.
03
The design prioritizes rounded forms inspired by natural shells, promoting a sense of safety and comfort.
04
Hidden storage solutions are integrated throughout units, maximizing functional living space.
05
Community amenities include a multifunctional rooftop that fosters social interactions among residents.

The Kreis Project is designed as an affordable housing solution for young professional couples. Located in a bustling urban area, this development aims to create a sense of community while maximizing living space. The overall concept encourages shared experiences among residents by eliminating conventional boundaries between individual apartments, allowing for both personal privacy and communal interaction.

Design Concept

The building takes inspiration from the natural world, especially the rounded shapes of animal shells. This design approach is more than visual; it fosters feelings of safety and comfort. The curved lines throughout the project offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a considerate addition to the urban landscape. The design seeks to enhance the emotional well-being of those who live there, demonstrating how form can influence experience.

Structural Innovation

Within each apartment, a circular central beam provides vital support. This element allows for open floor plans by minimizing the need for traditional columns. It helps distribute weight effectively while making the living spaces feel more expansive. The round shear wall that connects to these beams adds stability to the structure, allowing for flexibility in how residents choose to arrange their homes.

Interior and Communal Spaces

Interiors are thoughtfully designed to combine practicality and comfort. Features such as hidden beds and storage help maximize the available space, creating an organized and cozy environment. Additionally, terraces utilize rooftops of lower apartments, giving residents access to outdoor areas for gardening or relaxation without adding extra structural complexity.

The design also emphasizes community through shared amenities. A spacious rooftop serves various functions, including fitness areas, study spaces, and recreational zones. This encourages residents to connect and engage with one another. The plan carefully balances private and public areas, making sure both are accessible and functional. This adaptability allows the building to serve its residents effectively while fitting well into the city's fabric. A significant design detail is how the project integrates personal and communal experiences, promoting interaction while respecting individual space.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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