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Reflective Facade Enhances Urban Interaction in Adaptable Kiosk Design

Authors:
Alexander Turner, Marta Malinverni
Reflective Facade Enhances Urban Interaction in Adaptable Kiosk Design
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The reflective facade integrates seamlessly with its urban setting, creating an engaging focal point that emphasizes adaptability while serving as a multifunctional Kiosk.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective facade fosters dynamic visual engagement with urban surroundings.
02
Kiosk form allows for contextual adaptation in various environments.
03
Encourages community interaction through multifunctional design.
04
Creates a unique identity while remaining rooted in local characteristics.
05
Design concept draws inspiration from the historical notion of 'Polytropos.'.

"Polytropos in the Metropolis" is an architectural initiative that highlights adaptability and integration within urban settings. The design draws from the concept of 'Polytropos' in Homer's Odyssey, which illustrates the character Odysseus as someone versatile and intelligent. This inspired structure is designed to fit in various environments, serving a practical role in a contemporary city while responding thoughtfully to its context.

Conceptual Framework

The project reimagines the traditional Kiosk, a common small structure found in urban spaces serving specific purposes. By elevating the Kiosk typology, the design emphasizes its ability to replicate while establishing a unique presence based on the environment. This approach creates a relationship between the structure and its surroundings, allowing each iteration to express the characteristics of its location.

Reflective Facade

One noticeable aspect of the design is the reflective facade. This feature is not only for visual appeal; it interacts with light and the landscape, reinforcing ties to the urban setting. The reflective surfaces change throughout the day, creating varied visual experiences. This quality enables the building to engage with those nearby, altering its appearance and inviting moments of connection.

Focus on Individuality

Although rooted in the Kiosk form, the architecture asserts its uniqueness with distinct design elements. The volume stands out, serving as a focal point in the city while emphasizing the ideas of adaptability and context. This blend of characteristics enhances the structure's role in the urban area, encouraging exploration and engagement.

The emphasis on interaction ensures the structure resonates within its environment. The play of light on the reflective surfaces adds a layer of dynamism, highlighting its presence as a landmark in daily city life. The building doesn't merely occupy space; it interacts with people, fostering curiosity and enriching the urban experience.

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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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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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