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Natural Wood and Concrete Solutions for Flexible Living in Urban Settings

Author:
Lorena Gámez Hernández
Natural Wood and Concrete Solutions for Flexible Living in Urban Settings
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With a focus on modularity and the use of natural wood and concrete, this housing solution offers adaptable living spaces that integrate a co-work area to meet the needs of young professionals seeking balance in urban life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy reconfiguration based on sunlight and views.
02
Co-work area is integrated as a central space for professional development.
03
Natural wood walls connect interiors to the surrounding environment.
04
Strategic window placement enhances natural light and outdoor connectivity.
05
Close proximity to urban amenities while ensuring a tranquil setting.

The ORIENTATION HOUSE project addresses the need for affordable housing in Monterrey, Nuevo León, where many young adults struggle to become homeowners. Located in the district of El Barrial, Santiago, the design offers a modern and modular approach that prioritizes adaptability and practicality. It creates a living space that meets both residential and work needs while balancing the peace of nature with access to city life.

Modular Design

The architecture uses a modular design that enhances flexibility and customization. Residents can rearrange the internal spaces based on their preferences and the angle of sunlight. This design approach allows homes to maximize natural light and air circulation, fostering a comfortable and sustainable living environment.

Co-Work Integration

A key feature of ORIENTATION HOUSE is the co-work area, which is an important part of the layout. This office space allows residents to focus on their professional goals, reflecting how modern life often blends home and work. This thoughtful inclusion addresses the needs of individuals seeking a balance between personal and professional pursuits in their daily lives.

Environmental Context

The location provides a peaceful natural environment while remaining close to urban opportunities. El Barrial offers residents a chance to enjoy quiet surroundings, making it easier to relax or concentrate on work. The position of ORIENTATION HOUSE bridges the calm of rural life with the conveniences of a city, catering to those looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Materiality

The project features carefully chosen materials that support both function and aesthetic appeal. Concrete forms the main structure to ensure durability and stability. Natural wood panels are used for warmth, connecting the indoor spaces to the outside world. Drywall finishes serve to create clean, modern interiors, ensuring spaces remain user-friendly and visually pleasing.

Large windows enhance the design by bringing in light and framing views of the landscape, contributing to a feeling of openness between the interior and exterior. This thoughtful attention to detail allows the living spaces to feel more expansive and connected to the natural beauty surrounding them.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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