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Curvilinear Sanctuary with Raw Stone and Glulam Structure

Authors:
Shafik Kamarulzaman, Azrul Muhamad, Emil Johan Ismail, Taufik Zuhaili Nashrudin
Curvilinear Sanctuary with Raw Stone and Glulam Structure
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A curvilinear form combined with a glulam structure and raw stone elements creates a tranquil sanctuary designed for meditation and communal reflection amidst a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear form enhances natural flow and connection to the landscape.
02
Glulam structural elements provide strength while maintaining a lightweight appearance.
03
Sunken pods within the design create intimate spaces for reflection.
04
Incorporation of local raw stone reinforces ties to the surrounding environment.
05
Amphitheater-like undercroft fosters community engagement and interaction.

Surrounded by trees in a peaceful clearing, the design creates a space for meditation and reflection. The structure features a curvilinear form, moving from open to enclosed areas. This approach fosters a calming atmosphere for visitors seeking solitude and connection with nature.

Design Concept
The main idea behind the design is to guide visitors through different experiences as they move through the space. The entrance starts open, encouraging an initial sense of welcome. As visitors progress, they find themselves in more intimate areas, enhancing feelings of safety and engagement with the surroundings. Incisions placed in the facade allow light to enter while maintaining privacy, promoting a strong relationship between the interior and the natural environment outside.

Material Integration
Careful choices in materials emphasize the connection to the site. Plywood and timber shingles serve as cladding, contributing warmth and texture. The use of local raw stone in the altar and seating helps ground the structure in its landscape, creating a tactile experience for occupants. These materials work together to merge the indoor and outdoor settings.

Structural Elements
The structure relies on glulam beams for its framework, giving it both strength and an organic appearance. These elements support the flowing lines and shapes that define the overall design. Windows with double glazing and aluminum frames let in plenty of natural light, keeping the interior comfortable while enhancing energy efficiency.

Community Engagement
A significant aspect of the space is the undercroft, designed as an amphitheater. This area encourages social interaction while still allowing for personal contemplation. The layout balances individual and group activities, ensuring the space is flexible and adaptable to various uses.

In the center, an altar provides a focal point for reflection. Soft light filters through the openings, creating a peaceful environment that surrounds visitors. The combination of materials and light brings a sense of calm, making the space a true sanctuary for those who enter.

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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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