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Flexible Inflatable Concrete Shells Melding Natural Landscapes into a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Authors:
Napasorn Opassuksatit, Jiyoon Kim
Flexible Inflatable Concrete Shells Melding Natural Landscapes into a Multifunctional Urban Hub
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Utilizing a flexible inflatable concrete shell, the design seamlessly integrates into the natural landscape while creating a multifunctional hub for transit and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes inflatable concrete technology for structural flexibility.
02
Features translucent concrete for enhanced natural light throughout.
03
Integrates existing mature trees into the design for ecological preservation.
04
Includes modular spaces that promote adaptability for various community functions.
05
Prioritizes light wells in the architecture to optimize energy efficiency.

## Overview

Located within a dynamic urban context, the conceptual design explores the interplay between natural and constructed environments, aiming to establish a symbiotic relationship between architecture and its surroundings. The project reimagines urban spaces as multifunctional areas that serve diverse community needs, functioning both as a public transit hub and a gathering space for cultural exchange and engagement.

### Volume and Spatial Strategy

The architectural expression is characterized by a curvilinear form that reflects natural topographies, creating fluidity within the urban landscape. This design choice challenges conventional geometric configurations while facilitating meaningful interactions with adjacent buildings. Inclined roofs enhance the overall dynamism of the structure and provide sheltered areas for communal activities. Incorporating strategically placed light holes, the design allows natural light to permeate the interior, resulting in dynamic illuminated spaces throughout the day.

The spatial organization creates a distinct hierarchy, articulating functional zones such as the platform level for transit services and the exhibition level designed for public events and gatherings. Circulation pathways are intentionally designed for intuitive navigation, echoing the organic movement found in natural settings while seamlessly integrating landscaping features such as preserved tree canopies and curvilinear plant beds.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a range of materials that emphasize both aesthetics and functionality. Durable concrete forms the primary structural element, enhanced by the innovative use of inflatable concrete technology, which enables flexible and dynamic architectural shapes. Translucent concrete contributes to the visual quality of the space by allowing light to filter through while maintaining privacy.

In aligning with sustainability goals, the design incorporates green materials and incorporates natural landscaping elements, reinforcing ecological balance and promoting biodiversity. This commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative construction methods underscores the design's distinctive character while fostering a sense of community and connectedness with the natural environment.

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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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