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Sustainable Thatch Roof Structure Integrating Steel and Concrete for Coastal Community Resilience

Sustainable Thatch Roof Structure Integrating Steel and Concrete for Coastal Community Resilience
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Constructed with a distinctive thatch roof and a robust framework of steel and concrete, this facility serves as a vital community hub for the Haenyeo, integrating cultural heritage with practical functionality for the local female diving community.
5 key facts about this project
01
The thatch roof design references traditional coastal architecture while enhancing natural ventilation.
02
Steel and concrete construction ensures resilience against coastal weather conditions.
03
A linear layout promotes accessibility and fosters interaction among community members.
04
Interior spaces incorporate large glass panels for natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Dedicated areas for seafood processing are integrated into the main structure, supporting the local economy.

### Overview
Located on Jeju Island, South Korea, the Haenyeo House is designed to serve the needs of the Haenyeo, a group of female divers engaged in fishing, while also preserving and promoting their cultural heritage. The project aims to create a functional space that reflects the traditions of the Haenyeo while incorporating modern architectural principles. The design integrates programmatic elements in a linear arrangement, facilitating accessibility among spaces for cooking, seafood processing, social interaction, and public engagement.

### Spatial Strategy
The Haenyeo House is characterized by a sawtooth roof silhouette that connects the structure to local architectural vernacular. This distinctive roof design not only enhances functionality but also pays tribute to the traditional fishermen's homes in the vicinity. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces fosters community interaction, featuring public lounges and event areas that serve as gathering points for both the Haenyeo and the local population. This spatial organization encourages a sense of belonging and cohesiveness among users, while ensuring that the building adapts to the evolving needs of the community.

### Material Selection
The material choices in Haenyeo House reflect a commitment to sustainability and cultural resonance. Traditional thatch roofing is employed to honor local heritage while contributing to environmental sustainability. The structural framework utilizes steel for strength and flexibility, complemented by durable concrete elements that withstand coastal conditions. Glass is incorporated to enhance natural light and visual connections with the surroundings, while wood accents provide warmth and emphasize craftsmanship. This combination of materials effectively bridges traditional and contemporary design, reinforcing the project's intent to establish a renewed architectural identity that aligns with its context.

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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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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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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