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Megalithic Concrete Structure with Integrative Light Wells for a Cultural Venue

Author:
Jake Hofeling
Megalithic Concrete Structure with Integrative Light Wells for a Cultural Venue
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The arrangement of megalithic concrete forms is enhanced by integrated light wells, creating a dynamic environment for poetic expression within a cultural venue in Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
The circular configuration symbolizes continuity and community engagement in the arts.
02
Light wells integrated into the design enhance natural illumination throughout the building.
03
Megalithic concrete forms serve both structural and metaphorical purposes, reflecting the weight of history.
04
A dedicated backstage area ensures seamless transitions for performers during events.
05
The design emphasizes urban integration with pathways connecting to nearby public transport.

## Overview

The Rome Poetry Hall is located in the historic center of Rome, where it serves as a dedicated venue for the exploration and celebration of contemporary poetry. The design integrates the rich cultural heritage of the city with a modern architectural language, creating a space that encourages artistic expression and community engagement. The circular configuration of the building symbolizes unity and continuity, reflecting intrinsic elements of poetry while fostering interaction between visitors and their surroundings.

## Materiality and Structural Expression

The architectural design utilizes a primarily concrete structure, employing Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) for its durability and aesthetic qualities, which honor the historical context of Roman architecture. The material palette also includes glass, strategically incorporated to enhance transparency and facilitate natural light penetration, while wood and stone add warmth and a tactile connection to the environment. The balance between these materials results in a visually engaging facade that invites exploration.

## Functional Layout and Visitor Experience

The spatial strategy includes distinct levels and designated areas to enhance user experience. The lower level features a central piazza that functions as a gathering point for events, alongside exhibition spaces that highlight various artistic disciplines, centering on poetry. The upper level is dedicated to private spaces for reflection, reinforced by strategically placed light wells that create dynamic light conditions throughout the day. The design also incorporates light pathways to improve accessibility and connectivity with existing urban transport networks, ensuring the Poetry Hall is well-integrated into the urban fabric.

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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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