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Tectonic Pathways with Reinforced Concrete and Natural Soil Integration

Authors:
Lidia Danil, Irina Coraga, Laurentiu Milotoiu
Tectonic Pathways with Reinforced Concrete and Natural Soil Integration
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Built between tectonic plates, the structure incorporates reinforced concrete walls and a thermal blanket of natural soil, creating an environment that harmonizes with the landscape while serving as a space for public and private interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates thermal comfort with a geothermal heat source beneath the building.
02
Utilizes modular pathways with steel grid panels for minimal visual disruption.
03
Features reinforced concrete walls that create alcove-like interior settings.
04
Positioned at the intersection of two tectonic plates, enhancing geological experience.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategic interior layout inspired by cave formations.

The design is situated between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates, taking advantage of a unique geological setting that defines its character. The overall intention is to create spaces that balance public engagement with private reflection. The building encourages movement through fluid pathways that connect users to the landscape, creating a rich visual and sensory experience.

Spatial Organization
The layout responds directly to the existing topography, forming a design that leads users on a journey through the site. The structure’s geometry rises from the ground, acting as a visual marker that draws attention to the building. This design uses flowing spaces, reminiscent of natural caves, where movement feels both guided and intuitive, allowing for exploration within the architecture.

Material Use
Material choices help to support the project's aims. Steel grid panels are incorporated into the pathways, designed to minimize their impact on views while serving functional purposes. Tiled reinforced concrete walls provide strength and create a clear divide between inside and outside. These walls enhance the spatial experience, offering alcove-like environments that shift with light and accommodate users comfortably.

Environmental Integration
A thermal blanket formed from natural soil helps with temperature control, linking the interior comfort to the geothermal heat source below. This connection reminds users of the geological context while being energy efficient. The project respects the surrounding landscape, applying a noninvasive approach that promotes sustainability and interaction with nature.

Attention to light is a key feature within the design. Its interplay creates dynamic atmospheres throughout the interior, resembling the natural qualities found in cave environments. This element enhances the experience of moving between different spaces, connecting both geological features and the constructed environment in a meaningful way.

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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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