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Reflective Facade of Recycled Glass with Cross-Laminated Shelter in a Secure Haven

Author:
Adriana Toader
Reflective Facade of Recycled Glass with Cross-Laminated Shelter in a Secure Haven
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Constructed with cross-laminated panels and clad in recycled mirror glass, the design creates a reflective facade that fosters introspection and safety, serving as a secure refuge for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Walls made from cross-laminated insulated panels provide strength and energy efficiency.
02
Exterior features recycled mirror glass that reflects the surrounding environment.
03
Rotating fins adjust for light and privacy while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
04
A platform lift within the shower offers direct access to the roof garden.
05
The layout includes specific zones for cooking, working, and introspection.

INNER SANCTUM is designed as a refuge in a post-apocalyptic world, emphasizing safety, self-reflection, and sustainable living. The concept focuses on providing a secure environment that allows occupants to engage deeply with both their internal and external settings. The layout encourages a redefined relationship with the surrounding world, prioritizing comfort and security amid uncertainty.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout consists of carefully defined zones that serve specific purposes: cooking, living, working, sleeping, WC/shower, storage, courtyard, and roof garden. This thoughtful arrangement maximizes functionality while ensuring that personal and communal spaces are effectively integrated. The roof garden not only beautifies the environment but also aids in rainwater collection, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices in design.

Materiality

The choice of materials contributes significantly to the identity of INNER SANCTUM. Walls are constructed from cross-laminated insulated panels, which provide structural strength and improve energy efficiency. The exterior features recycled mirror glass taken from office buildings, which helps the structure to blend into its surroundings. Visible timber battens are used for the courtyard walls, giving a warm and natural feel to the overall design.

Design Features

Key design elements enhance the living experience by making spaces more versatile. The double-glazed doors are designed to stack neatly, allowing the interior areas to be opened up for more fluid movement. A living desk that can convert into a larger dining table demonstrates the need for multifunctionality in modern homes. Additionally, a platform lift is incorporated within the shower area, providing easy access to the roof garden and creating a direct connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Architectural Elements

The design includes rotating fins, which not only serve as a functional element but also enrich the aesthetic appeal. On the inside, these fins have a reflective mirror finish, while their outer surfaces are matte black. This contrast helps manage light and privacy for the inhabitants, enhancing the overall comfort of the living spaces. These elements are not just visually intriguing; they also serve practical purposes, showing an understanding of how architecture can respond to both form and function.

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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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