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Hydraulic Lift Residence with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Hydraulic Lift Residence with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles
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Elevated above flood levels, the residence employs a hydraulic lift system and incorporates cross-laminated timber with charred wooden shingles, creating a sustainable living space that adapts to environmental challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated hydraulic lift system adjusts the home according to flood levels.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles improve durability and provide fire resistance.
04
Bent A-frame design optimizes natural ventilation and aesthetics.
05
Integrated aquaponics system supports local food production on-site.

## Overview

The Oregano project is an elevated eco-sustainable residence designed to address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly flooding and displacement. Strategically located in regions susceptible to extreme weather, the design integrates advanced technologies and smart design principles to foster resilience and sustainability. It emphasizes functionality while maintaining a strong sense of community through adaptable spaces that accommodate various activities.

## Spatial Configuration and Interaction

The residence covers an area of 25 square meters, optimizing space without compromising comfort. Its open layout features a central area that combines the living room, kitchen, and dining space, promoting interaction among occupants while providing versatility for different uses. The strategic division between communal areas and private quarters, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, ensures both social engagement and individual privacy, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

## Innovative Resilience Features

A key element of the structure is its hydraulic lifting system, which employs water-filled chambers to elevate the building in response to rising floodwaters, thereby enhancing safety. The elevated design not only protects the residence but also ensures access to natural surroundings and vistas. Furthermore, sustainable strategies such as a rooftop rainwater harvesting system contribute to self-sufficiency in water needs, while on-site vegetable gardens and aquaponics facilities promote sustainable food sourcing. Materials selected for the project include recycled wood for cladding, energy-efficient glass, water-resistant coatings, and green insulation, all chosen to maximize durability and minimize environmental impact.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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