Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Glass Dome Integration With Traditional Stone in a Community-Focused Ecclesiastical Space

Author:
Giorgi Svanishvili
Glass Dome Integration With Traditional Stone in a Community-Focused Ecclesiastical Space

Project in-detail

A glass block dome seamlessly integrates with traditional stone elements to create an adaptable space that serves both communal and spiritual functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
The dome is constructed entirely of modular glass blocks to enhance natural light and create a unique visual experience.
02
An octagonal floor plan reflects traditional Georgian church designs while supporting modern functionality.
03
Integrated educational spaces are designed to serve multiple age groups, promoting community engagement.
04
Sustainable materials, including natural stone and timber, are sourced locally to reduce environmental impact.
05
The design emphasizes fluidity in movement, with strategically placed entrances for effective circulation during services.

The architectural project for the Christian Orthodox Church in Kakheti, Georgia, exemplifies a modern interpretation of traditional Georgian ecclesiastical architecture. This design addresses the spiritual, community, and educational needs of its users while respecting the historical context of the region. The church is characterized by a fluid layout that allows for both individual contemplation and communal activities, establishing a multifunctional religious space.

The architectural design integrates a series of key elements that enhance its functionality and aesthetic. The octagonal plan reflects traditional Georgian church designs, integrating familiar geometric forms while allowing for a modern interpretation. The use of sustainable materials is intentional, contributing to the long-term viability of the structure. The dome constructed with glass blocks is a unique feature of the project, facilitating natural light and creating a dynamic interplay of transparency and reflection within the interior spaces. This design decision not only enhances the atmosphere but symbolizes enlightenment and spirituality.

Innovative Design Approaches

One notable aspect of this project is its modular design approach. The glass blocks used in the dome are assembled in a manner reminiscent of modular construction. This provides flexibility in design while maintaining structural integrity. The structure’s adaptability allows it to serve various community functions beyond worship, including educational spaces designed for different age groups, thus fostering a sense of community involvement.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project. The combination of traditional stonework with contemporary materials such as steel emphasizes the connection to Georgian vernacular architecture while addressing modern construction methodologies. This blend ensures durability and aligns with contemporary sustainability practices. The strategic placement of entrances creates a logical flow of movement through the church, allowing for organized access during services and events.

Interior Space Configuration

The internal configuration of the church focuses on creating an ambient atmosphere conducive to worship and reflection. Carefully designed areas within the church cater to various groups of worshippers, including specific spaces for children and the elderly. The architectural layout engages visitors and encourages participation in communal activities. The thoughtful design of altars and seating arrangements enhances the overall aesthetic while ensuring functionality.

Overall, the church in Kakheti balances tradition and innovation, making it a significant architectural project that honors cultural heritage while meeting modern demands. To explore more about this project, including its architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas, please review the detailed project presentation.

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