Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Himalayan Pink Salt and Reclaimed Wood in Sustainable Airport Facilities

Author:
Ibrahim Desooky
Himalayan Pink Salt and Reclaimed Wood in Sustainable Airport Facilities
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing a unique aluminum wing assembly and Himalayan pink salt, the design enhances functionality and sustainability within a multi-purpose facility at Al Dhafra Airport.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aluminum wing assembly repurposed from aircraft materials Himalayan pink salt flooring sourced from Khewra, Pakistan Biophilic design elements with indoor bamboo and pampas grass Wind rose analysis directly influencing building orientation Low emissivity glazing used for energy efficiency in public areas.

The design at Al Dhafra Airport combines functionality and environmental awareness. Set in a unique context, it caters to various needs, featuring spaces such as a training meeting room, a gift shop with offices, and a café. The overall concept emphasizes user interaction and connects well with the natural surroundings.

Design Orientation

A detailed wind rose analysis influences the orientation and layout of the building. Understanding the direction and speed of winds throughout the year helps optimize natural ventilation and thermal comfort. This design decision supports sustainability and creates a comfortable environment for users.

Material Innovation

An aluminum wing assembly, sourced from repurposed aircraft materials, forms a key element of the design. This choice not only highlights sustainability but also adds distinct shapes to the structure. Inside, a canvas screen filters daylight, enhancing energy efficiency and improving comfort for those inside the building.

Interior and Exterior Integration

Biophilic design is evident in the use of bamboo for ramps and railings, bringing natural elements into the space. Plantings of bamboo and pampas grass offer a peaceful atmosphere and enhance air quality. The flooring blends whitewashed reclaimed wood with Himalayan pink salt, creating a connection to local materials and enhancing the visual experience.

Structural Elements

The design prioritizes open spaces, supported by vertical steel columns that provide stability without limiting function. Spandrel glazing panels serve as railings while allowing light to enter, maintaining a connection to the outside. This careful design approach promotes ease of movement and enriches the experience within the building.

The project concludes with a façade that reflects a balance between sustainability and innovation, offering clear connections between the building and its environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

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