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Electrostatic Air Filtration Within Charred Timber and Glass Structure for Urban Resilience

Authors:
Patryk Krol, Mateusz Binkowski, Malgorzata Nowicka, Malgorzata Nowicka
Electrostatic Air Filtration Within Charred Timber and Glass Structure for Urban Resilience
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An electrostatic filtration system embedded within a charred timber and glass structure enhances air quality while creating multifunctional civic spaces in a densely populated urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Equipped with an electrostatic air filtration system to improve urban air quality.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates multifunctional community spaces to encourage social interaction and wellness.

### Overview
Located in Cracow, Poland, the project responds to the public health crisis posed by air pollution, specifically addressing risks associated with lung cancer in urban settings. The design serves as a functional intervention aimed at improving air quality while fostering community well-being. By integrating technological advancements with architectural strategy, the building functions as a filtration system for the urban environment, providing a healthier atmosphere for residents.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Engagement
The architectural layout emphasizes connectivity through the creation of communal spaces linked by courtyards, designed to encourage social interaction and enhance mental well-being. Areas designated for exercise and recreation complement the mixed-use functionality of the building, promoting a holistic approach to health. Additionally, dedicated spaces such as libraries and exhibition areas foster community involvement and cultivate a sense of ownership among residents.

### Materiality and Technical Integration
The selection of materials is integral to both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. Glass envelopes the structure, allowing natural light to permeate interior spaces while visually connecting occupants to the surrounding environment. Wood is utilized for structural components and finishes, underscoring sustainability efforts and contributing to a warm interior atmosphere. Concrete provides foundational stability, complementing the natural landscape. Furthermore, the inclusion of electrostatic filter materials ensures effective air purification, pivotal to the project’s health-oriented objectives. The innovative use of industrial waste materials in construction represents a forward-thinking approach to sustainable architecture, exemplifying adaptive reuse strategies conducive to environmental stewardship.

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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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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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