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Embracing Nature Through Dry Stone Walls and Flexible Community Spaces

Author:
Jonas Virsik
Embracing Nature Through Dry Stone Walls and Flexible Community Spaces
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The integration of dry stone walls creates a unique framework for flexible community spaces in Omuli, Latvia, fostering artistic collaboration and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a Museum of the Horse within a restored old school building.
02
Flexible workshop spaces are integrated with outdoor gardens for artistic activities.
03
Dry stone walls reference the nearby ruins of Ergeme Castle, enhancing historical context.
04
Community gathering areas are designed to promote collaboration among diverse users.
05
Natural light flows through strategically placed openings, connecting interiors with the landscape.

Omuli Gardens is a development situated in the scenic setting of Omuli, Latvia. The focus of the project is to create a lively environment for artists, craftsmen, and visitors alike. It integrates various spaces with the natural surroundings. The design concept aims to establish a strong relationship between the structures and the gardens, allowing creativity to flourish in an inviting atmosphere.

Phase I serves as the first step, including essential facilities such as workshops, kitchens, toilets, and service areas. It also features the existing old school building, which has retained its character while adapting to new uses. The layout promotes flexibility, allowing for a smooth flow between activities. This phase lays the groundwork for future expansions while maintaining the community's essence.



In Phase II, the development grows to include a construction school, additional workshops, and accommodations, along with a Museum of the Horse. This museum is located within the old school structure, designed to link the building more closely with the outdoors. Openings in the design enhance the flow of natural light and views of the gardens. This connection encourages community participation and provides a platform for artistic activities. Each part is carefully crafted to work together, contributing to a lively mix of cultural experiences.



Phase III introduces further service facilities, reinforcing the unity of the project. The arrangement of spaces allows for collaboration among a variety of users. This design promotes accessibility, creating an environment where individuals can come together for both personal and group activities. The layout reflects a commitment to fostering community spirit across all phases.



A significant element of the design is the dry stone walls found throughout the site. These walls, commonly used in Europe, offer sturdiness and require little upkeep. They also enrich the ecological environment by providing habitats for various plants and animals. Inside the renovated old school, a two-story garden hall showcases the original building's features while creating a spacious area for gatherings. This careful blending of past and present enriches the user experience and highlights the project’s thoughtful approach.

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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.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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