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Suspended Metal Fins and Transparent Facades Define a Biophilic Urban Space

Authors:
Robert Crawshaw, Katelynn Tate
Suspended Metal Fins and Transparent Facades Define a Biophilic Urban Space
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Suspended fins of metal and expansive glass facades create an interconnected environment that emphasizes natural light and community interaction within a versatile gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended metal fins create dynamic shadow patterns on the building's surfaces.
02
Extensive glass facades enhance transparency and visual connectivity with the surroundings.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for innovative spatial organization and versatility.
04
Integrating biophilic elements, the project fosters a connection to nature within an urban setting.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate various community functions and gatherings.

### Overview and Context
The Chrysalis project is strategically located adjacent to significant regional landmarks such as museums and bridges, enhancing accessibility while emphasizing its architectural presence. Designed to reflect the socio-political history of the Baltic states—particularly the transformative movements of the 1980s—the structure serves both functional and symbolic roles. It utilizes elements of light, movement, and carefully selected materials to create a contemporary space that embodies cultural identity and resilience.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement
The architectural composition features concentric forms that guide visitor movement, fostering an immersive experience as one transitions from the exterior into the vibrant interiors of the café and gallery. The spatial arrangement balances communal areas and individual nooks, encouraging both interaction and personal reflection. Notable design elements include a dynamic roof profile adorned with suspended spheres, which provides unique lighting effects and enhances the engagement between occupants and their environment.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration
The project employs a diverse palette of materials to achieve both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Glass is extensively utilized in the café enclosure, allowing an abundance of natural light while providing views of the surrounding landscape, effectively symbolizing transparency and connectivity. Vertical metal fins punctuate the façade, creating rhythmic patterns that reflect light and contribute visual interest from multiple angles. Durable concrete serves as the foundation, while landscape materials, including low bollards and concrete pavers, define approaches and integrate the building harmoniously within its environment. The careful selection and arrangement of these materials work collectively to create a cohesive and responsive design.

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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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