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Curvilinear Wooden Structure with Fabric Shading for Community Engagement

Author:
Mirna Al Alayli
Curvilinear Wooden Structure with Fabric Shading for Community Engagement
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A series of curvilinear wooden structures with integrated fabric shading elements create an inviting space for community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms mimic the silhouette of flamingos, enhancing visual appeal.
02
Modular shade units can be easily transported and rearranged on-site.
03
The design features a wooden hyperboloid structure for structural efficiency.
04
An observation deck provides panoramic views, promoting interaction with the landscape.
05
Sustainable materials are chosen to reduce environmental impact and support durability.

"Flock of Flamingos" is designed to foster social interaction and community involvement. The setting encourages engagement among visitors, creating spaces that blend well with the surrounding environment. Inspired by the behavior and forms of flamingos, the design concept emphasizes adaptability, transparency, and a strong connection to nature. The intention is to create an open and inviting atmosphere that resonates with users while being respectful of the context.

Design Concept

The design draws heavily from the social traits of flamingos, reflected in the use of curvilinear lines that mimic their silhouettes. This flowing design promotes ease of movement and allows people to transition smoothly between different areas of the building. Panoramic views are woven throughout the structure, enhancing the experience and inviting visitors to interact with the landscape around them.

Structural Elements

The building features lightweight shade units that vary in size, orientation, and height. These units are designed for easy transport and assembly, ensuring flexibility in their arrangement. This modular approach allows the design to adapt to varying needs while maintaining a consistent visual appearance.

Materiality and Construction

The main structure is constructed using a wooden hyperboloid design, showcasing the potential of timber in architecture. In addition, the shade units consist of a wooden frame with a fabric cover, providing necessary shading without compromising the overall aesthetics. This choice of materials aligns with the project’s focus on sustainability and environmental awareness.

Circulation and Integration

A ramp made from beams and columns facilitates circulation throughout the space. This pathway connects various essential areas, such as an observation deck that offers expansive views, as well as communal spaces like the cafeteria and information center. Visitors are encouraged to explore, whether they are taking in the scenery or mingling in shared spaces.

The thoughtful design integrates both functional and social aspects, creating a built environment that respects its surroundings while promoting interaction among visitors. A vantage point at the observation deck allows for a deeper connection with the landscape, offering a unique perspective to those who take the time to engage with the space.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 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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