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Seamless Integration of Terrazzo and Timber in Community-Centric Recreation Facilities

Author:
Frank Boehm
Seamless Integration of Terrazzo and Timber in Community-Centric Recreation Facilities
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Utilizing a blend of timber and terrazzo, the design weaves through the existing landscape to create a functional community hub that prioritizes sustainability and user connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a flexible layout that adapts to diverse community activities and events.
04
Integrates extensive glazing to maximize natural light and connection to outdoor spaces.
05
Preserves existing trees within the site to maintain ecological integrity and natural beauty.

### Overview

Located in a landscape-rich environment, the Recreation Campus and Portugal Olive Guest House feature an integrated design that harmonizes built form with the surrounding natural setting. The project aims to facilitate a range of recreational activities while addressing environmental concerns and functional requirements.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout is structured around a central spine that connects various facilities and activity zones, promoting both guided movement and spontaneous interaction. This pedestrian corridor serves as the heart of the campus, ensuring accessibility while encouraging social engagement among users. Activity zones are thoughtfully designed to accommodate gatherings, meditation, and group dynamics, with strategically placed pavilions that open to garden spaces and foster interaction.

The design emphasizes a connection with nature by preserving existing trees and integrating local flora, such as lavender and other indigenous species, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The arrangement supports community interaction by creating spaces that are accessible yet offer opportunities for privacy.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a fundamental aspect of the project's design, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. Timber serves as the primary structural element, valued for its low-carbon footprint and warm aesthetic. Terrazzo, used for the central spine, provides durability and a soft transition between the built environment and the landscape. Brick cladding enhances thermal regulation, significantly contributing to the passive design strategy. The extensive use of glass maximizes natural light, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, while steel elements provide structural integrity.

Sustainability is evident in the project’s approach, including natural ventilation strategies that reduce reliance on mechanical systems and landscaping that incorporates local flora to support biodiversity and minimize irrigation needs. The adaptability of spaces is a notable feature, allowing for rearrangement and reconfiguration to meet the evolving needs of the community over time. This flexibility ensures the design remains relevant and functional in a dynamic environment.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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