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Recycled Concrete and Volcanic Stone Building Emphasizing Greenery and Community Engagement

Author:
Adrianna Jarząbek
Recycled Concrete and Volcanic Stone Building Emphasizing Greenery and Community Engagement
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Using volcanic stone and recycled concrete, the design centers around a crater-like feature that fosters community interaction, providing flexible spaces for exhibitions and a café in a sustainable setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central crater design enhances visitor interaction and exploration.
02
Recycled concrete construction emphasizes sustainability and ecological responsibility.
03
Volcanic stone cladding connects the structure to its natural surroundings.
04
Flexible exhibition spaces accommodate various community events.
05
Green roof features improve stormwater management and biodiversity.

The design incorporates a concept centered around a 'CRATER,' which effectively connects the built environment with its natural setting. Located in an area reminiscent of volcanic landscapes, the structure highlights a relationship between its internal spaces and the surrounding scenery. It serves multiple purposes, including exhibitions, dining, and office functions, creating a cohesive experience for users.

Concept and Layout

The central 'CRATER' serves as a focal point, organizing the design around it to enhance visitor engagement. This layout reflects a volcano-concentric approach, guiding movement and interaction within the building. Areas are clearly defined, allowing for exploration while aligning with the external landscape. Visitors can navigate through the spaces with a sense of discovery.

Sustainable Design Features

Energy efficiency is at the core of the project. Natural ventilation is prioritized to maintain comfort, while mechanical systems support this as needed. This balance demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact while ensuring a pleasant indoor climate. The integration of these systems indicates a thoughtful approach to environmental responsibility.

Functional Areas

Different levels serve distinct functions. The Ground Level includes visitor services such as a reception area, cloakroom, and flexible exhibition spaces. These elements promote ease of access and help visitors feel welcomed. On Level 1, a café encourages social interaction, providing a gathering place. Level 2 contains office spaces that cater to professional needs. These functional zones collectively enhance the overall user experience.

Materiality

Materials used in the project include recycled concrete, volcanic stone cover, and greenery cover. Choosing recycled concrete supports sustainability while ensuring structural strength. The volcanic stone cover creates a tactile connection to the environment, grounding the design within its natural setting. Greenery cover contributes not only to aesthetics but also serves environmental purposes, including improving air quality.

Large windows draw in natural light and frame views of the landscape, emphasizing the relationship between the inside and outside. The design encourages visitors to appreciate the surroundings, fostering a strong connection to nature.

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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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