Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Sinuous Connector of Steel and Concrete Unites Contemporary Structure with Historic Context

Authors:
Xing Yu Tong, Chun Qing Li
Sinuous Connector of Steel and Concrete Unites Contemporary Structure with Historic Context

Project in-detail

A sinuous steel connector integrates a robust concrete mass with a historic structure, facilitating a dynamic exchange of energy and information within an engaging urban space.
5 key facts about this project
01
A unique sinuous connector enhances interaction between modern and historic structures.
02
Energy flow visualization is integrated into the architectural design.
03
A robust concrete mass provides stability while maintaining minimalism.
04
Strategic landscaping creates seamless transitions between built and natural environments.
05
Natural light is maximized through thoughtful use of transparent materials.

## Project Overview

BlackBodyBox is located in a context rich with diverse architectural forms, bridging modern design with traditional structures. The project is focused on the integration of energy transmission and the visualization of data flow, aimed at fostering interactions between new and existing architecture. The design principles are reflected in the geometric forms and materials utilized throughout the construction, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic coherence.

## Spatial Integration and Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework is informed by the terms "black body" and "black box," sourced from thermodynamics and systems theory, respectively. The 'black body' serves as a metaphor for the building's capacity to engage with and absorb its surroundings, while the 'black box' implies an opaque system engaging in complex exchanges. This duality underpins the interactions between architectural elements, facilitating a dialogue that highlights continuity and transition within the spatial context. The configuration showcases a deliberate juxtaposition of modern and classical elements, generating a dynamic aesthetic and inviting exploration of architectural narratives.

## Design Elements and Material Selection

The design features a bold rectangular mass that conveys modernity, characterized by uniform surfaces that contrast with the historical architecture. A sinuous connector links the new structure to the existing building, symbolizing the flow of energy and information while enhancing user engagement.

Materials chosen for construction include:

- **Steel**: Utilized for the structural framework and the sinuous connector, providing a lightweight yet durable design.
- **Glass**: Incorporated in transparent areas for natural light and visual connections, enhancing openness.
- **Concrete**: Employed for the primary mass, establishing a sense of permanence and presence against the backdrop of historical architecture.
- **Stone or Brick**: Evident in the existing structure's façade, contributing a tactile connection to the site’s history.

Landscaping has been strategically implemented to create inviting green spaces, softening the transition from built to natural environments and enhancing the project's accessibility and aesthetic appeal. The integration of these elements underscores BlackBodyBox's unique approach to architectural design through the lens of data visualization and energy interaction.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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