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Reflective Water Pool Under Copper Panel Canopy in Natural Biosphere Reserve

Authors:
Lennon Robichaud, John Chamberlain
Reflective Water Pool Under Copper Panel Canopy in Natural Biosphere Reserve
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A reflective water pool lies beneath a copper panel canopy, seamlessly merging with three earth-emerging pillars to serve as a functional rainwater collection tower within the North Latvian Biosphere Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
A reflective pool captures rainwater for agricultural use.
02
Pillars emerge directly from the earth, symbolizing connection to the land.
03
Copper panel screen adds texture and visual interest to the structure.
04
Landings and apertures provide panoramic views of the surrounding biosphere.
05
The design incorporates a dual-purpose cistern beneath the floor.

Earth Supper is located in the North Latvian Biosphere Reserve. The project aims to create a connection between the natural surroundings and the architectural form. Featuring three pillars that rise from a cut in the earth, the design symbolizes a transition from the landscape to the structure itself. Visitors experience a journey into the tower's sub-level, moving from earthy elements to a more industrial, metallic environment. As they ascend, the setting and structure invite a sense of awareness of the beautiful natural context.

Architectural Expression

The design incorporates landings and punched openings that provide clear views of the horizon and the expansive biosphere. These carefully placed apertures allow those inside to connect with the landscape outside. This approach fosters an immersive experience, highlighting how design can encourage interaction with nature while framing and enhancing the enjoyment of the surroundings.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability plays a key role in Earth Supper. The tower serves as a rainwater collection unit for the Kurgi Farm, offering easy access to stored rainwater for agricultural use. The overflow from the rainwater storage becomes a reflective pool, which sits under a grate floor, creating an attractive visual and contributing to the project's sustainable focus. This dual function merges practicality with an inviting atmosphere.

Material Palette

Material choices in this project are intentional and focused. The design features an insulated metal panel roof, which includes a channel gutter system. A copper panel screen adds a visual link to nature, while a polished concrete floor slab provides stability. An unconditioned concrete panel system visually connects with rammed earth walls. The structural support is formed by steel tube framing, spaced at regular intervals, paired with a steel grate floor that integrates into the overall design.

At the top of the tower, the form becomes denser, resembling a tree. This not only reaches toward the sky but also reinforces the relationship between architecture and nature. The design invites quiet reflection and connection to the environment, encouraging occupants to engage with both the structure and its landscape.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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