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Fluid Concrete Canopy Embraces Natural Light and Community Interaction

Authors:
Scott Erdy, Zamir Garcia, Jose Pertierra
Fluid Concrete Canopy Embraces Natural Light and Community Interaction
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A fluid concrete canopy with integrated glass elements and versatile fabric sections redefines community gathering spaces by fostering interaction and reflection in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fluid canopy design enhances light penetration and spatial flow.
02
Extensive glass usage creates seamless indoor-outdoor connections.
03
Adaptable fabric elements provide versatile usage and dynamic aesthetics.
04
Integrated natural greenery blurs boundaries between built and natural environments.
05
Curvilinear forms foster community engagement and movement.

### Overview

Located in the Piazza Galeno district of Rome, the Baladchin Colloquy serves as a multifunctional cultural monument and community gathering space. The design emphasizes the thematic interaction between sacred and secular spaces, fundamental to its purpose as a contemporary architectural response to the rich historical context of the city.

### Spatial Dynamics and Conceptual Framework

The project reinterprets the traditional “baldachin,” a ceremonial canopy, to create flexible environments that adapt to varying needs throughout the day. The architectural layout features flowing, organic geometries that disrupt conventional concrete forms, promoting a sense of movement and interaction among visitors. This dynamic spatial arrangement is achieved through innovative structural engineering and material applications, resulting in areas that foster exploration and engagement.

### Materiality and Sustainable Design

Advanced concrete technology forms the backbone of the structure, enhancing both aesthetic fluidity and structural integrity. Transparent glass elements facilitate a connection between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing ample natural light to permeate the interior, thereby enriching the visitor experience. Additionally, fabric-impregnated forms are employed to define various spaces while creating smooth transitions. The integration of landscaping elements furthers the dialogue between architecture and nature, encouraging a holistic engagement with the site. This approach underscores a commitment to sustainability, utilizing contemporary materials and methodologies that support the project’s architectural narrative without compromising environmental considerations.

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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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