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Symbolic Forms and Curvilinear Spaces in Desert Engagement

Authors:
Gianluca Ferri, Pierfabio Falasca, Veronica Perrotti
Symbolic Forms and Curvilinear Spaces in Desert Engagement
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The integration of curvilinear partitions and symbolic forms against the backdrop of the Nazca lines creates a unique cultural hub that fosters engagement and exploration through performance, education, and art.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear partitions enhance spatial fluidity and movement.
02
The design incorporates local historical references from the Nazca lines.
03
Five thematic concepts guide the visitor experience throughout the space.
04
Natural light is strategically utilized to create dynamic interior environments.
05
The layout fosters interaction and community engagement through diverse functional zones.

Horizon Oddity is located in Southern Peru, between Nazca and Palpa, on an expansive arid plateau. The site features the famous Nazca lines, ancient geoglyphs with astronomical significance. The design aims to create a dialogue between the built environment and its historical context. Storytelling and communication play essential roles in the project’s approach, encouraging both emotional engagement and intellectual thought. The architecture responds to the unique characteristics of its landscape while connecting with the rich heritage of the Nazca region.

Architectural Concept

The project explores themes of light, shape, and color, intertwining these with references to stars and constellations. By focusing on both artistic and scientific elements, the design seeks to bridge connections between the past and the present. Visitors are invited to engage with a narrative that reflects the cultural importance of the location. This concept is meant to inspire a sense of wonder while grounding the experience in the realities of the surrounding environment.

Layout and Functional Zones

The layout features several distinct areas, such as a Performance Area, Conference Room, Workshops, Reception, Galleries, and Cafe. These zones are connected within a grid framework that provides structure. To counterbalance this, curvilinear partitions are incorporated, introducing a sense of flow and movement within the space. This design encourages exploration and interaction among visitors, making the environment dynamic and inviting. Each functional area is designed with specific activities in mind while contributing to an overall sense of unity.

Thematic Framework

Five key ideas define the thematic framework: SACRED - BELIEVE, PROFANE - THINK, HOME - LIVE, TOWER - OBSERVE, and TRANSPORT - TRAVEL. Each concept highlights a different aspect of human experience and invites visitors to reflect on their own narratives. These themes function as guiding principles for both the architecture and the user experience, enriching the way people connect with the space and with each other.

Materiality and Design Elements

No specific materials are mentioned in the presentation, but the design emphasizes symbolic forms and codes. These elements resonate with the overall narrative and serve functional purposes. The use of geometry and symbols goes beyond aesthetics, facilitating communication with the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful integration of design elements encourages visitors to consider the relationship between architecture and environment, enhancing their overall experience.

Natural light streams through large windows, creating shifting patterns inside the space. This interplay of light and shadow highlights the architectural forms and connects the interior with the ever-changing desert landscape outside.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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