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Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Solitude in a Harmonious Community Space

Author:
D.h. Kim
Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Solitude in a Harmonious Community Space
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Reflective surfaces create a serene ambiance that encourages introspection and connection in a community space designed for quiet reflection and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces enhance natural light throughout the space.
02
Panels facilitate indirect interaction and personal reflection.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and warmth.
04
A bent A-frame design creates unique spatial dynamics.
05
Natural elements integrate the building with its surroundings.

The design presents a thoughtful exploration of the connection between individuality and community. Located in an urban setting, it serves as a peaceful refuge aimed at fostering reflection and introspection among users. The concept is influenced by the Japanese idea of "Wa," which means harmony, highlighting the importance of peaceful coexistence within a group while respecting personal identities.

Panels

Carefully arranged panels create a spatial framework that encourages indirect interaction. Users can engage with their environment without direct confrontation, allowing for moments of solitude and contemplation. The arrangement fosters an atmosphere conducive to self-discovery while maintaining respect for each individual's personal space.

Reflective Surfaces

Reflective surfaces play a crucial role in the design. These materials amplify natural light, creating a dynamic visual experience that changes throughout the day. They enhance aesthetic appeal and cultivate a calm environment, inviting users to pause and interact with their surroundings.

Balancing Harmony and Individuality

A key aspect is the balance between harmony and individuality. The approach allows each person's unique presence to be acknowledged within a cohesive setting. This relationship redefines interactions, enabling individuals to be seen as vital members of a community while preserving their autonomy.

Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements into the design enriches the user experience. Features integrated into the architectural framework encourage users to connect with both interior and exterior spaces, merging the boundaries between architecture and nature. The result is an environment that nurtures both reflection and engagement.

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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.

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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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