Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Fluid Architecture Elevated By Eco-Friendly Composites And Marine-Inspired Design

Author:
Lenka Petrakova
Fluid Architecture Elevated By Eco-Friendly Composites And Marine-Inspired Design

Project in-detail

Mimicking the fluid forms of marine ecosystems, this facility integrates eco-friendly composites and innovative water filtration systems to serve as a research and ocean cleanup hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mimics aquatic forms to enhance integration with the marine environment.
02
Utilizes innovative water filtration systems designed for ocean cleanup.
03
Incorporates biophilic elements to promote biodiversity and ecological health.
04
Features a greenhouse to support sustainable food production on-site.
05
Integrates renewable energy solutions, including photovoltaic solar panels.

The project "The 8th Continent" represents a notable advancement in architecture aimed at addressing the issue of ocean pollution, particularly in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This architectural design combines functionality with sustainability to create a research and ocean cleanup station. It emphasizes ecological awareness and aims to facilitate educational opportunities regarding marine health. The overall form of the structure reflects organic shapes associated with marine life, which aids in its integration into the surrounding environment. The project serves as both a facility for scientific research and a platform for engaging the public in marine conservation efforts.

The design incorporates several unique features that differentiate it from traditional architectural responses to environmental issues. Its exterior exhibits fluid lines, reminiscent of aquatic plants, which enhances the aesthetic value while maintaining functionality in the challenging oceanic conditions. The structure is strategically designed to provide resilience against harsh weather while optimizing interaction with the marine environment. Its use of advanced materials such as eco-friendly composites, photovoltaic solar cells, and hydraulic systems underlines the commitment to sustainability.

The project’s key functional components include a research center equipped with laboratories and classrooms for educational purposes, dining facilities that promote sustainable culinary practices, and interactive viewing platforms that foster a connection to marine ecosystems. The greenhouse aspect serves dual purposes: it not only supports research on sustainable agriculture but also acts as a source of fresh produce, reinforcing the philosophy of self-sufficiency. Additionally, the incorporation of water filtration systems facilitates the direct addressing of ocean waste, making this project not just a structure but an active participant in environmental restoration.

For those interested in exploring this project in more depth, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will provide further insights into the innovative approaches applied throughout the architectural design. Understanding the specific architectural ideas and methods used in "The 8th Continent" can offer valuable perspectives on how architecture can effectively respond to pressing global challenges.

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