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Floating Glass Facades Above a Historical Barn Informed by Synaptic Connections

Author:
Talal El Masri
Floating Glass Facades Above a Historical Barn Informed by Synaptic Connections
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The design features floating glass facades supported by vertical elements that create a visual connection between a contemporary structure and a historical stone barn, serving as a guest house in the Riga Region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating glass facades create a visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
The design incorporates a 'Synaptic Gap' for interaction between old and new structures.
03
Vertical elements support the building, enhancing the perception of levitation.
04
Roof extensions provide seasonal shade and sunlight management.
05
The stone barn acts as a natural light filter, creating a balanced interior atmosphere.

The Ozolini Guest House is located in the scenic Riga Region and presents a design that aligns with its natural surroundings. The concept revolves around "Synapse Connections," which takes inspiration from how neurons interact biologically. The building serves as a retreat that connects with the existing stone barn, showcasing modern design while honoring historical elements.

Conceptual Framework

The design introduces a 'Synaptic Gap' between the new structure and the stone barn. This gap allows for an appreciation of both buildings without physical contact. It creates a space where the new design can communicate with the historical context. Visitors can explore freely, moving between indoor areas and the natural landscape outside.

Materiality and Structure

Glass facades play a central role in the design, contributing to an overall feeling of lightness. These facades are made possible by embedding aluminum frames into the walls and slabs. This approach allows the glass surfaces to dominate, creating a continuous connection to the outside world. The materials used not only enhance visual appeal but also support durability, ensuring that the new construction works with the existing barn.

Climate Responsiveness

The design considers climate carefully. Roof extensions provide shade from direct sunlight in the summer, helping to keep the interior comfortable. During winter, sunlight is allowed to enter and warm the spaces inside. The stone barn also helps manage light, filtering harsh rays and creating a gentle, welcoming atmosphere throughout the year.

Aesthetic Detail

The building is supported by four vertical elements that give the impression of floating above the stone barn. This detail adds to the overall feeling of lightness. It highlights the harmony between the two structures. Each design choice reflects a careful focus on both form and function, reinforcing the connection between the guest house and its historical context. The result is a thoughtful blend of modernity and tradition.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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