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Lightwell-Infused Gallery with Terracotta Facade and Functional Artist Residencies

Author:
Jocelyn Arnold
Lightwell-Infused Gallery with Terracotta Facade and Functional Artist Residencies
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A lightwell serves as a central feature, enhancing the natural illumination of artist studios and gallery spaces enveloped in a terracotta facade, providing a functional environment for creativity and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central lightwell integrates natural light into studio spaces and exhibits.
02
Terracotta facades enhance thermal performance while providing aesthetic texture.
03
Interactive art installations encourage visitor participation and engagement.
04
The use of cross-laminated timber promotes structural stability and sustainability.
05
A landscaped rooftop garden serves as a recreational area for residents and visitors.

## Overview

The Curious Residency, designed by Ainsley Bertrand, is located in Bangkok, Thailand. The project serves as a residency and gallery space, aiming to foster creativity and collaboration among artists and visitors. It integrates artistic elements within the architectural framework, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

## Spatial Organization

The design features a carefully planned spatial layout across multiple levels, guiding visitors through distinct areas. The entrance houses an expansive gallery that showcases a rotating collection of artworks, inviting engagement from the public while facilitating access to more private sections. The circulation paths within the building are strategically designed to promote fluid movement, differentiating between communal and private zones. Dedicated spaces include a library and artist studios that offer both solitude and opportunities for collaborative work.

## Materiality and Unique Features

Material choices reflect the project's purpose and enhance visual and tactile experiences. Extensive use of wood for staircases and flooring ensures durability and warmth, while glass elements increase natural light and connectivity to the exterior. Concrete provides structural support, complemented by terracotta and steel in facade treatments that add texture and color.

Prominent design features include a lightwell that facilitates natural illumination and serves as a showcase for curated exhibits. Interactive art installations within the gallery invite user participation, transforming observers into contributors. Additionally, a landscaped rooftop offers a green space for relaxation and aligns with sustainability initiatives in an urban context.

The design merges community engagement, cultural expression, and sustainable practices, creating a cohesive environment that supports artistic development in Bangkok.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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