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Textured Concrete and Natural Light Define a Multifunctional Urban Hub in Historic Context

Authors:
Sam Horwood, Johnny Wang, Jordan Stones
Textured Concrete and Natural Light Define a Multifunctional Urban Hub in Historic Context
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Textured concrete forms and strategically placed oculi channel natural light into a community hub that seamlessly integrates modern functionality with the historic fabric of Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete creates an innovative aesthetic while providing structural integrity.
02
Large oculi are strategically placed to maximize natural light throughout the building.
03
Multi-level design fosters vertical interaction and connectivity among different functions.
04
Incorporation of landscaping elements enhances biodiversity and urban ecology.
05
The central courtyard serves as a communal gathering space, promoting social engagement.

# Galeno Commons Project Overview

Located in the historical heart of Rome, Italy, Galeno Commons integrates contemporary architectural practices with the city’s rich history. Drawing inspiration from classical elements such as arches, domes, and oculi, the design reflects a dialogue between the past and the future. Named after the ancient Roman physician Galeno, the project serves to articulate this connection, promoting community engagement and cultural exchange.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial layout is strategically designed to facilitate connectivity and foster social interaction. At the center, a circular courtyard serves as a communal hub, enhancing accessibility for both pedestrians and vehicles while providing visual links across different levels of the building. The multi-tiered architecture includes a Ground Floor (GF), Basement Level 1 (B1), and Basement Level 2 (B2), each interconnected to ensure a dynamic user experience that encourages exploration and interaction.

### Material Selection

The choice of materials emphasizes both innovation and functionality. Pioneering techniques in concrete create unique textures and forms, allowing the structure to embody durability while moving away from traditional applications. Large glass facades and internal partitions maximize natural light, forging visual connections between indoor spaces and the surrounding courtyard. Additionally, structural steel elements support cantilevered designs, promoting spaciousness throughout the facility. The incorporation of landscaping elements within the courtyard not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes biodiversity, integrating nature into the urban environment.

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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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