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Sensorial Journey Through Darkness and Light in Cultural Themes

Authors:
Dragos Andrei Beldiman, Ana Corina Enciu, Sonia Elena Dumitrescu
Sensorial Journey Through Darkness and Light in Cultural Themes
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A sensorial journey unfolds through contrasting themes of darkness and light, inviting visitors to explore the complexities of cultural identity within a civic area dedicated to community engagement and historical reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built on the historical context of the Ancient City of Babylon.
02
Integrates themes of darkness and light to enhance emotional engagement.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for unique spatial experience.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
05
Explores cultural identity through carefully curated thematic elements.

The project is situated near the Ancient City of Babylon, a place known for its historical significance as the origin of cultural differences. This context informs the design, which draws inspiration from the biblical story of the Tower of Babel. This narrative reflects an important moment in history when linguistic uniformity ended, paving the way for the concept of civilization. The design includes two distinct areas: a civic area for community interaction and an exhibition space that examines essential themes throughout history.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout features a clear separation between the two areas, allowing each to serve its unique function. The civic area provides a welcoming space for community gatherings, fostering interaction among visitors. The exhibition area is designed to immerse visitors in a thematic exploration of historical narratives, inviting them to engage with various aspects of the human experience.

Experiential Journey

A notable aspect of the design is its focus on the visitor's journey, which starts and ends in darkness. This deliberate choice leads visitors through a sequence of emotional experiences. They will encounter themes such as darkness, fire, light, war, culture, and self. The progression is structured to evoke a range of emotions, eventually guiding visitors toward feelings of hope and contentment, enriching the overall experience.

Thematic Exploration

The arrangement of themes within the exhibition area plays an essential role in exploring the relationship between conflict and understanding. By placing contrasting themes side by side, the design encourages reflection on the complexities of human existence. Visitors are invited to consider how these themes interact in shaping cultural identities while also engaging with the rich history of the region.

The design comes to life through the thoughtful arrangement of spaces that enhance visitor interaction. Each transition between themes is carefully considered, creating a narrative flow that aligns with the site's historical context. The outcome emphasizes a deep engagement with identity and culture, allowing visitors to connect meaningfully with their surroundings.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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