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Live-Edge Slats Forming Community Spaces in a Sustainable Food Court

Authors:
Ye Feng, Annie Locke Scherer, Ron Aasholm, Merve Ünlü
Live-Edge Slats Forming Community Spaces in a Sustainable Food Court
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Vertical live-edge slats define the communal spaces of a food court that prioritizes sustainability and efficient circulation, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a radial structure to enhance visitor circulation.
02
Utilizes plain sawn lumber to minimize waste in construction.
03
Vertical live-edge slats blend the structure with its forested surroundings.
04
Features multifunctional seating integrated into the food court layout.
05
Emphasizes community collaboration with a shared internal space for caterers.

THE GROVE is a proposal for a food court at the Sansusi festival, designed to emphasize sustainability and community interaction. Set within a natural landscape, the design aims to create a space that is both functional and welcoming. A radially symmetrical layout supports easy movement and connection among visitors, enhancing their overall experience while honoring the surroundings.

Design Concept

The layout incorporates a radially symmetrical form that facilitates 360° circulation. This arrangement allows people to move freely and encourages casual interactions. With a shared internal structure for three caterers, the design enables collaboration and efficient service, making it easier for festival-goers to enjoy their meals together.

Materials

Plain sawn lumber serves as the main material, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices. By using entire trees, the design minimizes waste and maximizes the use of resources. Structural framing consists of standard dimensions such as 2x4s and 4x4s, which provide solid support and ensure stability for the overall structure of the food court.

Architectural Aesthetics

The exterior of THE GROVE features vertical, live-edge slats that connect the building with the forest environment. These design elements create an attractive facade while maintaining a natural look. This connection with the landscape helps blend the building into its surroundings and makes the experience more enjoyable for visitors.

Functional Layout

In the food court area, vertical slats are used both as boundaries and seating. This practical design choice not only saves space but also encourages people to gather and socialize. By shaping the surrounding dining area with these elements, the design fosters a sense of community and enhances the overall atmosphere for attendees.

The thoughtful combination of spaces and materials results in a structure that respects its environment while meeting the needs of its users. The design creates an inviting area that promotes social interaction and a strong community presence.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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