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Dynamic Glass Facade Integrated with Natural Stone and Ecological Water Garden in a Multimodal Transport Hub

Dynamic Glass Facade Integrated with Natural Stone and Ecological Water Garden in a Multimodal Transport Hub
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A dynamic glass facade harmoniously blends with natural stone and an integrated water garden, redefining a multimodal transport hub to enhance public accessibility and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic glass facade adjusts transparency based on daylight.
02
Includes a human-scale ecological water garden for biodiversity.
03
Natural stone elements connect the design to the site's history.
04
Multiple distinct entry points enhance pedestrian flow and accessibility.
05
Sustainable materials incorporate recycled composites for reduced impact.

### Project Overview
Located in New York City, the initiative to revitalize Penn Station addresses the evolving demands of urban transit. The design intends to enhance accessibility, aesthetic quality, and functional efficiency while respecting the site's historical significance. Through its architectural framework, the project aims to establish a modern identity for this critical transportation hub.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Organization
The design employs a geometric layout characterized by angular forms and dynamic lines that reflect the movement inherent in a transit environment. A series of clearly defined entry points facilitate pedestrian flow while improving visibility and accessibility. These distinct pathways are strategically planned to engage with the surrounding urban fabric, ensuring that the station not only serves as a transit point but also functions as a social gathering space.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing durability and a contemporary appearance. Extensive use of glass in the façade allows natural light to permeate the interior, creating a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Steel reinforces structural resilience, enabling large open areas, while natural stone elements preserve the historic character of the station. The design prioritizes sustainability, incorporating recycled materials and eco-friendly finishes to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the project features a water garden that promotes biodiversity and offers a tranquil environment, underscoring the commitment to ecological responsibility.

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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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