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Fluid Form Enhanced by Natural Light and Concrete Harmony in a Coastal Performance Space

Fluid Form Enhanced by Natural Light and Concrete Harmony in a Coastal Performance Space
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Crafted with a fluid, oval form and built predominantly from concrete and glass, this coastal venue integrates natural light and panoramic views, serving as a dynamic space for cultural performances and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fluid oval form enhances acoustics and audience engagement.
02
Seamless integration of panoramic views with performance space.
03
Use of concrete and glass promotes sustainability and durability.
04
Design emphasizes natural light throughout interior spaces.
05
Community-focused layout encourages interaction among visitors.

### Overview

The Sunlight Theater is located on a coastal landscape, designed as a cultural venue that functions as both a performance space and a public gathering area. The design seeks to foster an interaction between art and the natural environment, aiming to engage visitors in a meaningful dialogue with the surrounding landscape.

### Form and Structural Integrity

The theater features a fluid, undulating form that resembles ocean waves, a design choice that enhances acoustics and visual coherence with the maritime context. This oval shape facilitates significant spanning capacity while maintaining structural stability and aesthetic appeal. The integration of concrete for the façade contributes to the building's durability and smoothness, while transparent glass components create bright interiors and reinforce visual connections with the outdoors. The steel truss system further supports the architectural vision, balancing strength with design flexibility.

### User Engagement and Spatial Configuration

Incorporating a unique seating arrangement, the theater's oval-shaped seats promote inclusivity and emotional connection among attendees. This configuration fosters a communal atmosphere, contrasting with traditional theater layouts. Additionally, a strategically placed viewing platform allows audiences to enjoy panoramic vistas of the horizon, enhancing the overall experience with visual layers that complement the performances. A functional service center is seamlessly integrated into the building's design, providing essential support for events while maintaining the venue's aesthetic integrity.

### Sustainability and Environmental Consideration

The design of Sunlight Theater prioritizes sustainability through minimal ground disturbance and adherence to the natural topography of the site. This approach promotes biodiversity and preserves the site's ecological character, ensuring that the development respects and integrates with its coastal environment.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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