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Glued Laminated Arches and Recycled Timber Create Compact Sustainable Living

Authors:
Joanna Korczyńska, Katarzyna Gniazdowska
Glued Laminated Arches and Recycled Timber Create Compact Sustainable Living
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Glued laminated arches and recycled timber create a compact structure designed for sustainable living, maximizing functionality within a 25 square meter footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glued laminated arches enhance structural integrity while creating a distinctive roof profile.
02
Recycled timber from decommissioned buildings is used for exterior panels, promoting sustainability.
03
An upper-arc space provides additional storage without occupying floor area.
04
Integrated wind turbines supply renewable energy for household use.
05
Rainwater harvesting system ensures efficient water management for domestic needs.

The Eco Arc House is a compact solution for sustainable living within a small area of 25 square meters. Positioned in various environments, it incorporates essential spaces like a living room, kitchenette, bathroom, and bedroom, along with a workspace. The design focuses on efficiency and adaptability, providing comfort for modern lifestyles while blending into its surroundings.

Structural Design

The design features a straightforward form topped by an arc made from glued laminated timber. This arch not only adds to the aesthetic quality but also enhances the structural integrity of the building. Above, there is additional storage space that effectively makes use of the vertical dimension, keeping the living area organized and free from clutter.

Material Application

Natural materials are a core aspect of the Eco Arc House. The primary material used throughout the interior and exterior is wood. Plywood serves as the main finish for surfaces and furniture, combining practicality with an appealing look. External panels are made of recycled timber sourced from old buildings, which supports the aim of sustainability and minimizes waste during construction.

Sustainability Features

The house includes systems that utilize renewable resources, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Wind turbines generate energy, which is stored in batteries for residential use. Rainwater is collected for domestic purposes, filtered, and heated, ensuring a reliable water supply. Wastewater is managed in a treatment plant before being released into the soil, allowing the building to function within its environmental context effectively.

Urban Layout Adaptability

The Eco Arc House supports a modular design that can be arranged in multiple ways. By linking units with decks, it is possible to create communal spaces, such as inner courtyards. This flexibility enhances community interaction and offers various living arrangements to suit different needs, contributing to a more engaging living environment.

The arched roof shape allows ample natural light to fill the interior, creating an inviting atmosphere. It enhances the sense of space while providing a unique and pleasant environment that residents can enjoy daily.

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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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