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Fractal Geometry and Reddish Brick: a Sustainable Community Library in Los Angeles

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Fractal Geometry and Reddish Brick: a Sustainable Community Library in Los Angeles
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Emphasizing fractal geometry and dark red brick, the library in Los Angeles offers a dynamic, interconnected environment that supports community engagement and learning.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fractal geometry influences both the layout and acoustic design throughout the building.
02
The library incorporates a rooftop garden that extends usable space and promotes ecological awareness.
03
Large glass panels maximize natural light while enhancing visual connections to the surroundings.
04
Curved walls clad in dark red brick create a warm atmosphere distinct from typical library designs.
05
Integrated interactive spaces facilitate collaborative learning and community gatherings.

### Project Overview

Located in Los Angeles, California, the Fractal Library integrates functionality with aesthetic consideration to enhance community spaces dedicated to learning and creativity. The design draws inspiration from philosophical concepts and the natural world, reflecting the dynamics of knowledge sharing and exploration. Through its structure and layout, the library aims to provide an environment that encourages interaction among users while supporting diverse activities.

### Spatial Strategy

The library adopts a multi-level, spiral configuration that facilitates an organic flow of movement throughout the space. The ground floor features expansive reading areas with natural lighting from strategically placed skylights and large windows, promoting an inviting atmosphere. The spatial organization includes the following key elements:

- **Ground Floor**: Houses the children’s library and main reading areas, flanked by arched alcoves that enhance the user experience.
- **Second and Third Floors**: Designated as study zones and collaborative spaces, these levels encourage social learning and group activities.
- **Fourth Floor**: Contains a rooftop garden that serves as an outdoor reading area, integrating nature into the library environment.

### Material Selection

The choice of materials significantly influences the character of the library and contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. Key materials include:

- **Concrete**: Provides structural integrity while its textured finish enriches the tactile experience within the interior.
- **Brick**: Dark red bricks used on curved ceilings and walls connect contemporary design with traditional architectural elements, adding warmth and visual unity.
- **Glass**: Generous glass panels enhance natural light throughout the space, creating an open and airy ambiance suitable for reading.
- **Wood**: Incorporated in furnishings such as tables and shelves, wood introduces a contrasting texture that enriches the overall material palette.

### Environmental Considerations

The design reflects a commitment to sustainability through features like rooftop gardens, which contribute to urban green spaces while providing a serene escape for users. This approach not only supports local ecology but also aligns with broader city goals to promote environmental responsibility within urban development. The library's multifunctional layout, with integrated outdoor areas and social zones, positions it as a versatile community hub, adapting to the evolving needs of its users.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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