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Natural Light Through Perforated Screens and Warm Timber in a Healing Community Space

Natural Light Through Perforated Screens and Warm Timber in a Healing Community Space
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Perforated screens filter natural light into a serene interior adorned with warm timber, creating a supportive environment for individuals navigating the challenges of terminal illness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated screens are integrated to optimize natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Warm timber finishes create a calming and inviting interior atmosphere.
03
A bent A-frame design enhances structural stability and visual interest.
04
Natural stone pathways connect reflective gardens throughout the site.
05
Adaptive spaces accommodate various therapeutic and communal activities.

## Overview

Located in a serene environment conducive to reflection, the design aims to create a supportive atmosphere for individuals facing terminal illness. The project draws inspiration from Kathleen Dowling Singh's interpretation of the stages of understanding death, emphasizing the need for a space that nurtures emotional and psychological well-being. Through carefully considered spatial arrangements and thoughtful material choices, the intent is to facilitate personal journeys towards acceptance and peace.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout features a central hub that encourages interaction, surrounded by landscaped gardens and secluded areas that offer opportunities for solitude and contemplation. Winding pathways lead through these gardens, guiding individuals along a meditative journey. The integration of communal spaces fosters connection, emphasizing social interaction as a crucial aspect of the healing process. Circular seating arrangements promote dialogue, facilitating shared experiences among visitors.

### Materiality and Light

The selection of materials is integral to the project's overall ethos of healing. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while warm-toned timber introduces a tactile warmth, establishing a connection with nature. Natural stone elements in seating and pathways offer grounding, while expansive glass features allow light to play across interiors, highlighting the dynamic relationship between presence and absence. Perforated screens and strategically positioned windows create evolving light patterns throughout the day, further enhancing the immersive experience. The design also incorporates significant greenery and water features, reinforcing the connection to nature and promoting tranquility.

### Sustainability Considerations

While specific sustainable practices are not detailed, the use of natural materials and the thoughtful integration of the architecture within its landscape reflect a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. This approach underscores the design's aim to harmoniously connect individuals with their surroundings, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging and peace.

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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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