Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Interconnected Squares Embracing Local Materials and Nature

Authors:
Myriam De Mesa Amores, Pol Fernández Fernández
Interconnected Squares Embracing Local Materials and Nature
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Rooted in the landscape, three interconnected squares utilize local materials to foster community interaction and provide versatile spaces for hospitality and creative work.
5 key facts about this project
01
Three interconnected squares designed to enhance community interaction.
02
Adaptable modules allow flexible use according to seasonal population changes.
03
Strategic positioning optimizes solar energy collection for thermal comfort.
04
Local materials reflect regional aesthetics and foster environmental integration.
05
Dedicated spaces for art and workshops promote creative engagement.

LACUNAS offers an insightful exploration of how empty spaces can be transformed into functional areas. Located in a landscape that combines both natural and built elements, the design creates interconnected squares for community and individual use. The name "LACUNAS" comes from a Latin word meaning "blank spaces," highlighting the project's foundation in utilizing these voids effectively. Each square has its own unique shape and purpose, encouraging social interactions while blending into the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

The core idea of LACUNAS revolves around using open spaces creatively. The design features three chained squares that not only connect but also serve different purposes. This arrangement supports various activities, improving community engagement. The layout is carefully designed to make the most of the site’s topography and orientation, ensuring effective solar energy capture. This attention to positioning is especially important for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures in the colder months.

Functional Zoning

On the ground floor, there is a mix of uses that include hotel rooms, community spaces, a yoga center, workshops, co-working areas, and exhibition spaces. This variety allows the design to accommodate different needs, supporting both solo and communal activities. The first floor expands these offerings with more hotel room options, hostal accommodations, and duplexes designed for artists, further enriching the range of spaces available for living and working.

Contextual Integration

LACUNAS aims to connect with the local architecture and landscape in a meaningful way. While specific materials are not mentioned, the choices made will reflect the regional aesthetic, contributing to a sense of place. This alignment with local design principles enhances the overall experience and emphasizes continuity with the existing built environment. Additionally, its strategic location not only in La Coma but also near La Puebla de Fantova strengthens ties to the surrounding community.

The design encourages exploration and interaction, featuring spaces that facilitate connections among users. Each area thoughtfully invites individuals to engage with the environment and with one another. It creates an experience where private and public realms can coexist harmoniously, allowing nature and community life to come together.

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

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 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 York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 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
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

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