Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Retreat with Elevated Platforms for Seamless Nature Integration

Authors:
Jae Min Park, Jason Kim
Rammed Earth Retreat with Elevated Platforms for Seamless Nature Integration
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Elevated platforms and the use of rammed earth create a harmonious blend with nature, establishing a tranquil retreat focused on wellness and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated platforms allow for enhanced views and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
02
Rammed earth construction integrates local soil to provide thermal mass and acoustic benefits.
03
Flexible spaces adapt to both communal activities and individual wellness needs.
04
Large openings maximize natural light and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Water features are strategically incorporated to enhance relaxation and sensory experiences.

## Restorative Immersion: Architectural Overview

Located in a rural setting characterized by dense trees and a tranquil pond, the Restorative Immersion project aims to create an environment that fosters a deep connection with nature. The architectural design integrates seamlessly into its surroundings, prioritizing spaces designed for relaxation and healing. By employing innovative building techniques and sustainable practices, the project seeks to establish a retreat that enhances both individual and communal experiences through immersion in the natural landscape.

### Spatial Organization and Functional Zones

The project features a carefully considered spatial strategy that delineates various functional areas, facilitating both privacy and community interaction. Key components include:

- **Dining and Kitchen Area**: This communal space features an open layout that promotes social engagement while offering panoramic views of the landscape. It includes a small kitchen, bathroom, study/library, living room, and outdoor dining areas.

- **Indoor and Outdoor Spa Facilities**: The indoor spa includes shower facilities and private treatment rooms designed for tranquility, while the outdoor spa features a sauna and relaxation areas that invite direct interaction with the environment.

- **Accommodation**: A guest/staff house comprises two bedrooms and shared living spaces, ensuring comfort and privacy for visitors and staff alike.

This arrangement promotes fluid movement among the various spaces and balances communal engagement with opportunities for reflection.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette reflects a commitment to local sustainability, enhancing the project’s connection to its environment. Key materials include:

- **Rammed Earth**: Employed in the spa areas, rammed earth incorporates the local blue clay, improving both acoustic and thermal performance while establishing a sense of place.

- **Wood**: Used extensively throughout the design, wood provides warmth and structural support, while also featuring louvered systems that modulate natural light.

- **Concrete and Glass**: Concrete is strategically utilized for stability and varied textures, while abundant glass allows for unobstructed views of the forest, reinforcing the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

- **Metal Accents**: These contemporary elements serve structural functions and provide a visual contrast to the organic materials.

Integrating these materials fosters a sensory-rich environment that invites visitors to engage with their surroundings while also addressing ecological concerns through thoughtful resource use.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in