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Ecologically Designed Habitat Featuring Vertical Gardens and Reinforced Concrete Facades

Ecologically Designed Habitat Featuring Vertical Gardens and Reinforced Concrete Facades
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With a focus on vertical gardens and the use of reinforced concrete, the design integrates urban living with ecological habitats, providing a sustainable residential environment that fosters community interaction and biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical gardens into multiple levels for enhanced biodiversity.
02
Utilizes reinforced concrete for structural stability and expansive open spaces.
03
Features wildlife corridors that promote safe animal movement throughout the site.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and minimize energy use.
05
Incorporates community spaces designed to encourage social interactions and environmental education.

## Overview

The Buffer Blending project is situated within an urban context that challenges the traditional separation between built environments and natural ecosystems. It addresses the need for coexistence between human activities and wildlife, proposing a nuanced approach to spatial planning and ecological sustainability.

### Transitional Spaces

The design incorporates transitional spaces, referred to as buffer zones, which act as mediators between urban life and surrounding natural habitats. This approach emphasizes the importance of reducing rigid boundaries, promoting more fluid integration of urban and natural elements. Key features include dedicated safety zones that facilitate safe interactions for both humans and wildlife, fostering mutual respect and sustainable living. The design prioritizes human-centric spaces while also accommodating diverse wildlife, thereby enhancing the overall urban experience.

### Material and Spatial Strategy

The architectural layout features multiple levels designed to optimize visibility and accessibility to green spaces, promoting interaction with nature. Open communal areas encourage social engagement, while vertical gardens integrate plant life throughout the structure, enhancing biodiversity. The intentional removal of visual barriers supports wildlife observation and interaction.

Material choices reflect both functionality and ecological ethos. Reinforced concrete provides structural support, while glass elements maximize natural light and transparency. Brick finishes connect with regional architectural traditions, adding a tactile quality, and metal grills ensure security without hindering the passage of light or wildlife. Green roof systems contribute to stormwater management and urban cooling.

### Community Integration

The project promotes community engagement through shared spaces, facilitating social interactions and educational initiatives related to local wildlife. It serves as a platform for environmental awareness, encouraging residents' active participation in ecosystem preservation. The aesthetic integration of industrial materials with natural elements challenges conventional architectural beauty, prioritizing ecological consciousness and functionality over uniformity.

The project outlines a sustainable model of urban living that does not compromise the ecological health of its surroundings while simultaneously addressing habitat loss and enriching community dynamics.

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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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