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Hidden Gardens Within Concrete Structures for Community Engagement

Authors:
Roman Lavalle Lavalle, Mayra Torres
Hidden Gardens Within Concrete Structures for Community Engagement
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Concrete forms intertwine with hidden gardens to create a unique community space that fosters artistic expression through poetry and public engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Concrete blocks reflect ancient Roman construction techniques while maintaining modern durability.
02
An underground bridge enhances connectivity between distinct site sections.
03
Hidden gardens promote biodiversity and provide tranquil spaces within the urban environment.
04
The design integrates natural light through strategic glass placements to enhance public spaces.
05
Community engagement is prioritized through flexible areas for artistic expression and collaboration.

## Overview

Dissimulō: Rome Concrete Poetry Hall is situated in a historically rich area of Rome, serving as a public venue that integrates artistic expression through poetry into the urban fabric. The design intent is to facilitate community engagement and cultural dialogue, addressing contemporary urban issues while maintaining respect for the site's historical significance.

### Spatial Strategy

The structure comprises four distinct vertical levels that promote accessibility and interaction among diverse user groups. The organization of space is as follows:
- **Level 1**: The entry level provides multiple access points for the public, inviting initial engagement with the site's objectives.
- **Level 2**: Functions as an underground corridor connecting separate sections, designed to enhance interaction.
- **Level 3**: Houses administrative offices and community gathering spaces intended for educational and collaborative activities.
- **Level 4**: Features secluded gardens that serve as quiet retreats, allowing visitors to reflect and engage with artistic experiences free from urban disturbances.

### Materiality and Architectural Integration

Concrete serves as the primary structural component, chosen for its durability and aesthetic capabilities, while glass elements maximize natural light and connect interior spaces with the exterior environment. A notable feature includes the use of specially designed concrete blocks that evoke ancient Roman construction methods, contributing to both visual rhythm and structural stability. Green roof systems enhance thermal performance and biodiversity, while natural stone pavers create tactile pathways, contrasting with the smooth surfaces of concrete areas. The design responds to the surrounding urban context, promoting movement throughout the space and encouraging public exploration by mitigating sensory overload.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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