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 Structure Showcasing Glass and Timber Integration Amidst Baltic Waterways

Author:
Ignas Arlauskas
Elevated Structure Showcasing Glass and Timber Integration Amidst Baltic Waterways

Project in-detail

An elevated structure of glass and timber artfully interacts with the landscape of Baltic waterways, serving as a cultural hub dedicated to maritime education and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design enhances views of the surrounding waterways.
02
Extensive use of glass integrates interior and exterior environments.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and aesthetic depth.
04
Flexible exhibition spaces accommodate diverse programming.
05
Stormwater management is seamlessly integrated into the landscape.

The Museum of Baltic Waterways is an architectural project designed to educate the public and showcase the maritime history of the Baltic region. Strategically located near vital waterways, the museum serves as a cultural hub focused on navigation, trade, and maritime heritage. The building embodies a contemporary architectural language while seamlessly integrating into the natural landscape.

The architectural design features an elevated structure that not only allows for expansive views of the surrounding environment but also emphasizes the significance of water as a central theme. The spatial layout is planned to facilitate visitor circulation through open galleries and exhibition areas, creating flexible environments suitable for various displays. The museum is designed to accommodate educational programs, community events, and exhibitions, fulfilling a dual role as both a cultural institution and a public gathering space.

Unique Integration of Landscape and Structure

One of the distinguishing aspects of the Museum of Baltic Waterways is its integration with the natural landscape. The elevated design minimizes the building's footprint, preserving local flora and fauna while maximizing the natural views. This approach reflects a commitment to sustainability, allowing for effective water management through features that address stormwater management and ecological treatment.

The materials chosen for the construction contribute to the overall functionality and aesthetic of the design. A combination of glass, concrete, steel, and timber is used strategically. The extensive use of glass facilitates natural lighting, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Concrete provides structural integrity, while steel supports innovative design elements. Timber adds warmth to the interior, creating an inviting atmosphere contrasting with the more industrial materials.

Thoughtful Design Elements and Visitor Experience

The architectural design prioritizes the visitor experience by creating an intuitive layout that encourages exploration. Wide corridors and gathering areas facilitate movement through the space, allowing for a rich interaction with the exhibits. The flexibility in the design enables the museum to adapt to various types of exhibitions, reinforcing its role as a dynamic cultural resource.

Attention to detail is evident in the selection and arrangement of materials. The transparent façade enhances the relationship between the museum and its context, while the structural components showcase the technical capabilities of modern building practices. The use of landscaping elements around the museum further integrates the project into its surroundings, blurring the lines between the artificial and natural environments.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Museum of Baltic Waterways, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that provide deeper insights into this impactful project.

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

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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
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