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Lateral Lines and Community Resilience in a Multifunctional Greenhouse Space

Author:
Pei-ling Lu
Lateral Lines and Community Resilience in a Multifunctional Greenhouse Space
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Drawing from the sensory biology of fish, the design incorporates lateral lines to create a cohesive space that serves as a multifunctional community hub and a shared greenhouse.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates principles of fish biology to influence spatial flow.
02
Features a multifunctional greenhouse that supports urban agriculture.
03
Utilizes secondhand resource areas for waste reduction and recycling.
04
Designed with a focus on community interaction and engagement.
05
Optimizies natural light and ventilation through thoughtful spatial arrangement.

Located in Iceland, the building takes its inspiration from the country's strong connection to marine fisheries, focusing particularly on cod as a major export. The design integrates the local landscape with the community's daily life. It serves multiple functions, designed to promote social interaction and sustainable practices. The overall concept emphasizes a blend of ecological awareness and community engagement.

Community Engagement

The layout encourages people to come together. An activity center and a shared greenhouse offer spaces for collaboration and learning. A visitor center serves as the main entry point, while an audiovisual room and information zone provide venues for discussions and presentations. These elements work together to create a lively hub for community activities.

Functional Distribution

Several key functions within the space focus on practical usage and sustainability. Lavatories and waste/resource collection areas are easy to access, reinforcing the commitment to responsible waste management. An organic waste management zone along with a secondhand resource exchange area fosters a culture of recycling and reuse. These features promote environmental responsibility among visitors.

User-Centric Design

The second floor enhances usability, with semi-outdoor spaces that connect the interior to the outside environment. Areas dedicated to children support educational play and learning experiences. The dining area and kitchen invite communal gatherings, while office and conference rooms provide flexibility for various functions. These thoughtful arrangements make the building adaptable and welcoming.

Architectural expression reflects the duality of Iceland’s landscape. It combines elements that evoke both the coldness of ice and the warmth of community spirit. A carefully designed facade establishes a visual connection with the surrounding landscape, creating a pleasing experience that invites exploration and social interaction.

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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.

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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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