Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Semi-Polished Concrete and Dark Wood Cladding Enhance a Radial Retreat Amidst Nature

Authors:
Julio Lau Borrayo, Luis Ernesto Perez Orta
Semi-Polished Concrete and Dark Wood Cladding Enhance a Radial Retreat Amidst Nature
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Incorporating dark wood cladding and semi-polished concrete within a radial layout, this residential retreat seamlessly integrates with its forested surroundings, offering both communal spaces and private quarters for mindful living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates large glass facades to enhance natural light and views.
02
Features a radial layout designed for efficient circulation between communal and private areas.
03
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
04
Employs semi-polished concrete flooring for aesthetic contrast and functionality.
05
Integrates solar panels into the gabled roof for energy efficiency.

### Project Overview
The Ashram House is a residential structure located in a forested setting that prioritizes a connection with nature while promoting sustainable living practices. The design integrates traditional craftsmanship with contemporary architectural principles, balancing aesthetic value with practical functionality. The intent is to create a peaceful retreat that encourages a harmonious relationship between residents and their natural environment.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout employs a radial organization that facilitates efficient circulation throughout the structure. The ground floor features an open-plan living and dining area that flows into outdoor verandas, encouraging engagement with the surrounding landscape. An adjoining kitchen is designed for seamless interaction, enhanced by the presence of expansive glass facades that allow natural light and views into the exterior environment. The second floor comprises private quarters that maintain a sense of seclusion while remaining connected to communal spaces.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette emphasizes eco-friendliness without compromising aesthetic quality. The exterior is clad in dark brown stained wood, offering both a modern look and durability against the elements. Interior finishes include blonde pine flooring for warmth, smooth plywood paneling for comfort, and white drywall for structural integrity. Concrete elements, such as semi-polished flooring, provide a sleek contrast to the warm wooden details. Additionally, the roofing incorporates solar panels, which promote energy efficiency and decrease reliance on non-renewable resources, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability. The overall design incorporates locally sourced materials, supporting regional artisans and minimizing transportation impacts.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 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