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Hollow Spaces That Resonate Amidst Porous Connections

Author:
Joshua Jones
Hollow Spaces That Resonate Amidst Porous Connections
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Porous and hollow spaces in the structure evoke the essence of traditional Latvian craftsmanship, enhancing community gathering while seamlessly bridging the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Porous structure allows for natural light penetration and interaction with the environment.
02
Inspired by the Baltic box psaltery, the design evokes a sense of musicality.
03
Elevated form promotes a feeling of transcendence while maintaining a grounded presence.
04
Defined gathering spaces encourage community interaction and reflection.
05
Integrates seamlessly with the landscape, blurring the lines between natural and built environments.

The Four-Fold Viaduct is situated in a landscape that emphasizes the connection between people and nature. Its design goes beyond the typical function of a bridge, serving as both a pathway and a symbol of human experience. Users are invited to explore the points where Earth, Sky, and Body meet. This project encourages meaningful reflection on one’s relationship with the surroundings while crossing, promoting a deeper understanding of space and place. The design is closely tied to the cultural context of Latvia, drawing on themes of craftsmanship and emotional connection.

Conceptual Foundations

The design takes inspiration from Latvia's material culture, particularly the Baltic box psaltery. This connection to tradition highlights the significance of cultural expressions in architecture. By comparing the viaduct to a silent Kokle, the structure evokes a sense of music and spirit. Crossing the bridge becomes an experience that engages not just the body, but also the mind and emotions of those who pass through it.

Spatial Dynamics

The Four-Fold Viaduct features a prepositionally elevated form, allowing for a feeling of uplift while still being rooted in the metaphorical landscape of the soul. Its hollow and open structure defines spaces where people can gather and interact. This thoughtful design fosters a sense of community and encourages various forms of engagement. As people move across the bridge, the experience unfolds, blending their journey with the surrounding environment.

Integration with Landscape

The project emphasizes a deep connection with the landscape, blurring the lines between physical and conceptual realms. By focusing on this integration, the viaduct turns the simple act of crossing into an enriching journey. Each step increases awareness of the natural world, allowing for a more meaningful experience. The architectural form plays an important role, guiding visitors and creating a dialogue between the design and its setting.

The design ultimately invites people to experience its spaces, drawing them in with its openness. Visitors can find moments of reflection and connection within its gentle curves and defined areas, fostering a true sense of belonging in the environment.

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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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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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