Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Curvilinear Community Hub Enhanced by Thermal Insulation Glass and Natural Wood Elements

Authors:
Pablo Trujillo, Felipe Barrero, Daniela Gonzalez, Julian Jerez
Curvilinear Community Hub Enhanced by Thermal Insulation Glass and Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Utilizing curvilinear forms and an array of natural materials such as aluminum and wood, the design creates an interconnected community hub that fosters social interaction and environmental integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a central kitchen area designed to facilitate community gatherings.
02
Features extensive use of double-glazed thermal insulation glass for energy efficiency.
03
Utilizes a modular construction method with locally sourced wood panels.
04
Landscaped outdoor spaces are integrated seamlessly with the building’s curvilinear architecture.
05
Employs aluminum framing to enhance structural integrity and reduce material weight.
The architectural project "Estuary" integrates community-focused design with environmental sustainability. Situated within a vibrant urban context, the project serves as a multifunctional hub that invites interaction and reinforces connections between ecological and human systems. The design delineates various spaces for social activities, recreational areas, and community resources, promoting well-being and active engagement.

The layout features a series of fluid forms that echo natural water movements, emphasizing the relationship between built structures and their surroundings. The building modules are arranged to encourage pedestrian movement and foster interactions among users. This responsiveness to user experience is a significant aspect of the project's architectural language, where each space is purposefully designed to serve specific community functions while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic.

Community-Centric Design

One of the defining characteristics of "Estuary" is its focus on inclusivity. The concept of a central "kitchen" area symbolizes nourishment and communal gathering, offering a warm environment where individuals can share experiences and resources. This design choice reflects a commitment to social interaction, supporting diverse activities and creating a sense of belonging among users. Furthermore, the integration of outdoor spaces is carefully considered to provide areas for recreation and social engagement, enhancing the project’s functionality.

The project employs a variety of materials which are not only sustainable but also resonate with the natural context. Options such as aluminum frame profiles, wood paneling, and thermal insulation glass ensure energy efficiency, while also imparting a tactile quality that enhances user experience. This deliberate selection of materials underscores the connection between architecture and nature, promoting environmental stewardship.

Architectural Innovation

The architectural design of “Estuary” explores innovative approaches to spatial organization and environmental integration. The use of extensive glazing blurs the traditional boundaries of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to permeate the interior and fostering a connection to the landscape. The landscaping features, including trees and urban gardens, complement the building’s design, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages community gathering.

Nighttime functionality is another unique aspect of the design. Strategic lighting enhances safety while also transforming communal spaces into vibrant areas for evening activities. This consideration of usability beyond daylight hours showcases the project's adaptive potential.

For a more comprehensive understanding of "Estuary," including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. By reviewing these elements, one can grasp the architectural ideas and innovative solutions embedded within this collaborative community space.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 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 16,979 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