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Framing Nature with Glazed Clay and Glass Veils

Author:
Jeff Jang
Framing Nature with Glazed Clay and Glass Veils
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Glazed clay and layered glass envelop a building that skillfully frames panoramic views of rolling hills, creating an immersive communal space designed for engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glazed clay panels provide thermal insulation while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
The building's veil extends views, creating dynamic perspectives of the landscape.
03
Clear, etched, and frosted glass types offer varying transparency and texture.
04
The design features a communal platform to foster collective experiences.
05
Strategically framed sunsets are a core element of the visitor experience.

Located in an area filled with natural beauty, the design offers a refreshing experience of the landscape through its unique approach. The function of the building revolves around connecting people with nature, creating a space where every visitor can engage with the environment. By treating the architectural form like a cinema, the design frames views of the lush surroundings, inviting users to immerse themselves in the changing scenery.

Design Framework

The structure consists of a platform, a wall, and a veil that combine to create a fluid transition between the inside and outside. This arrangement encourages interaction with the landscape. It invites visitors to explore and enjoy the views. Relationships between various spaces are carefully considered, enhancing the communal atmosphere while allowing for personal reflection.

Spatial Engagement

The exterior veil is crucial in shaping the visual experience. It extends the horizon, abstracts natural elements, and frames key vistas, such as the distant hills and captivating sunsets. By shifting perspectives, the design fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding it. As visitors move through the space, they experience gradual changes in light and scenery, which further enriches their connection to the environment.

Material Expression

The use of materials such as glazed clay, clear glass, etched glass, frosted glass, and chrome plays an important role in the project. These choices reflect a respect for local building traditions while integrating modern components. The varying types of glass allow natural light to filter in, blending the interior and exterior. This interaction with materials enhances tactile experiences and links people to the world outside.

Through thoughtful design and careful material choices, the building creates an environment where nature can be experienced in new and interesting ways. Light, texture, and form come together, providing a rich setting that captures the essence of the landscape. Visitors find themselves in a space that encourages exploration and appreciation of nature.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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