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Curvilinear Lattice and Natural Light Define a Contemporary Tattoo Academy with Concrete and Wood Elements

Authors:
Elena Xipolia, Thanos Balafoutis, Andreas Tzinis, Eugenia Assimakopoulou
Curvilinear Lattice and Natural Light Define a Contemporary Tattoo Academy with Concrete and Wood Elements
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A curvilinear lattice façade envelops a blend of concrete and wood, creating a well-lit environment for a dynamic tattoo academy that fosters artistic expression and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
A curvilinear lattice façade enhances both aesthetics and natural light while providing structural support.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for sustainability and thermal efficiency throughout the building.
03
The design incorporates a unique water feature that promotes a tranquil atmosphere for creative activities.
04
An amphitheater within the facility allows for flexible educational and community programming.
05
Charred wooden shingles on the exterior contribute to fire resistance and low maintenance requirements.

### Project Overview
Located in Melbourne, the Ink Cocoon serves as an educational facility dedicated to the art of tattooing. This architectural design merges functional spaces with artistic expression, reflecting the complexities and nuances of tattoo culture. Intent on fostering a creative environment, the project integrates various thematic elements of body art, connecting users with the act of expression both physically and conceptually.

### Spatial Organization and Interaction
The building is organized across two levels, with Level 1 housing reception areas, a guest house, and multifunctional spaces such as an amphitheater. Level 2 features workshop areas, a coffee shop, and a public gallery. The spatial configuration promotes versatility, allowing for diverse use scenarios that can accommodate both community events and intimate workshops. Open, flexible interior spaces facilitate interaction among users, while circulation paths enhance natural flow and engagement.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
The design employs a distinctive black lattice exterior that serves as a protective skin, echoing the theme of ink's relationship with skin. This structural element not only contributes to visual interest but also ensures structural stability. Key materials include reinforced concrete for its raw aesthetic, extensive glass installations for natural light, and warm natural wood for finishes, creating a dialogue between interior and exterior spaces. Outdoor terraces and integrated water features are incorporated to further encourage connections with the landscape and promote ecological sustainability.

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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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