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Thatch Roof Pavilion with Cross Laminated Timber and Natural Light

Authors:
Eszter Bernadett Barna, Balázs Markó, Balázs Kósa
Thatch Roof Pavilion with Cross Laminated Timber and Natural Light
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Emphasizing a thatch roof and Cross Laminated Timber construction, this creative space fosters collaboration and individual expression while seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thatch roof integrates traditional roofing methods.
02
Movable walls enhance spatial adaptability for various activities.
03
The design retains an existing stone wall for historical context.
04
Natural ventilation strategies reduce reliance on mechanical systems.
05
Large windows frame views of the surrounding landscape.

The Painter's Barn project highlights a thoughtful blend of architecture and nature, located in a scenic area near a lake. Designed primarily for artists, the barn reflects a strong respect for its historical backdrop and the surrounding landscape. The design emphasizes the importance of time and place, making the building a living extension of its environment. It serves as a space that encourages both individual creativity and shared experiences.

Sustainable Design Strategies

The approach uses passive design strategies to promote energy efficiency and environmental care. Features such as natural ventilation and carefully placed openings help improve airflow and bring in natural light, minimizing the need for mechanical systems. The layout takes climatic factors into account, ensuring a comfortable environment for users throughout the year.

Spatial Organization

Inside the Painter's Barn, the layout promotes flexibility, allowing for various configurations that suit different activities. The open floor plan resembles that of a pavilion and encourages a smooth flow between areas. Movable walls and partitions enhance this adaptability, enabling users to change the space as needed. Connections to nature are prioritized, creating a strong relationship between inside and outside.

Material Palette

The materials selected for the Painter's Barn align with the principles of sustainability and locality. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) panels form the primary structure, known for their strength and lower environmental impact. Modified paper-based insulation is used to maintain warmth, while thatch pays tribute to traditional roofing methods. The existing stone wall is preserved, connecting the new design with its historical surroundings.

Large windows allow ample natural light into the barn, framing views of the landscape. This focus on transparency fosters a calm atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for artistic work and inspiration.

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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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