Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Reflective Facades and Reclaimed Wood Define Community Spaces Amidst Salt Flats

Author:
Miguel Mateo Ugalde Vargas
Reflective Facades and Reclaimed Wood Define Community Spaces Amidst Salt Flats

Project in-detail

Utilizing reclaimed wood and reflective facades, the design harmonizes with the surrounding salt flats to create communal spaces that foster interaction and cultural connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local stone to enhance thermal performance.
02
Features a central courtyard to improve natural ventilation.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Employs recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.
05
Design integrates panoramic mountain views into communal spaces.
Architectural Project Analysis: Echoes of Salt

Echoes of Salt is an architectural project that embodies a careful integration of built form and landscape while reflecting the local cultural context. The project engages with the unique geographical characteristics of the site, particularly the presence of salt flats and mountainous terrain. By incorporating sustainable design principles, Echoes of Salt aims to harmonize with its surroundings, fostering a sense of connection between architecture and nature.

The primary function of the project includes spaces for communal gatherings, exhibitions of local art, and private retreats. The architecture promotes social interaction among users while providing areas for solitude and contemplation. The arrangement of spaces is designed to enhance natural light and ventilation throughout the day, creating a comfortable environment conducive to various activities.

Design Integration with Landscape

The architectural design of Echoes of Salt emphasizes its relationship with the surrounding landscape. The building form strategically positions itself to offer unobstructed views of the mountains, aligning with the natural topography. Large glass façades facilitate visual continuity between interior and exterior spaces, allowing the beauty of the salt flats and mountains to infiltrate daily experiences.

The use of local stone not only grounds the architecture in its environment but also serves functional purposes such as thermal regulation. The interplay of materials, including reclaimed wood and glass, fosters a tactile experience while maintaining durability. The architectural layout consists of interconnected structures, with a central courtyard that functions as both a gathering space and a natural climate moderator. This design decision encourages community interaction while ensuring that the interior spaces receive adequate sunlight and ventilation.

Sustainability and Cultural Reflection

Echoes of Salt innovates through its material selection and overall design ethos by prioritizing sustainability. The project utilizes locally sourced materials, minimizing transportation emissions and reinforcing local craftsmanship. The reflective qualities of the glass facades are designed to echo the local salt flats, further enhancing the project’s contextual relevance.

Moreover, the design incorporates elements inspired by local traditions. The architectural details reflect artisan techniques and materials, creating a narrative that connects users with the cultural heritage of the region. This incorporation of local identity into the architecture distinguishes this project from conventional designs, enhancing the user experience through a deeper understanding of the place’s history and environment.

Exploring the project presentation can provide insights into architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the thought process behind these design decisions. Those interested in innovative architectural ideas will benefit from a detailed review of Echoes of Salt.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy