Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Drone Hub Featuring Steel Framework and Transparent Facades in a Historic Arena

Author:
Frederick Elie Ajjoub
Elevated Drone Hub Featuring Steel Framework and Transparent Facades in a Historic Arena

Project in-detail

A circular steel structure with transparent facades integrates advanced drone operations into the historical fabric of a restored bullring, creating a multifunctional hub for logistics and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design integrates historical bullring architecture with modern drone logistics.
02
Elevated platforms facilitate efficient drone movement and operations.
03
Transparent facades maximize natural light and visibility within the space.
04
Community zones encourage public interaction and events within a functional hub.
05
Steel framework ensures durability while preserving the site's cultural heritage.

### Overview

Located in Barcelona, Spain, La Monumental is a reimagining of a historical bullfighting ring from the early 1900s, now designed as a multi-functional Innovation Center for Drones. The intent of the project is to adapt the cultural and historical significance of the original structure to serve contemporary transportation needs, particularly in the realm of drone operations. By integrating advanced technological infrastructure within an existing architectural framework, the design both honors the site’s heritage and addresses modern urban mobility challenges.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The architectural layout showcases a juxtaposition between the original circular form of the bullring and newly elevated structures that facilitate drone operations. The design features multiple levels connected by a network of rings, optimizing the flow of drone traffic and enhancing operational efficiency. The center is organized into four primary functional areas: logistics spaces dedicated to companies like Amazon and DHL; governmental service areas for public engagement and safety supervision; research and development laboratories focusing on drone technology; and public spaces that foster community interaction, all while maintaining a respect for the venue's historical use as a social gathering place.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of modern materials ensures the durability and functionality of the innovative design. Steel is utilized for the structural framework, glass enhances visibility and light, while concrete provides stability for the foundational elements of the facility. Composite materials may be integrated into the design for lightweight drone components and structural elements. By repurposing the existing bullring, the project reduces environmental impact and serves as a model for sustainable urban development. This approach aligns heritage preservation with contemporary architectural practices, showcasing how historical structures can evolve to meet current demands while contributing to the community's technological advancement.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy