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Thermal Insulation and Community Spaces Shaped by Natural Elements

Authors:
Jehean Sim, Suwan Jo, Nayeon Kim
Thermal Insulation and Community Spaces Shaped by Natural Elements
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Translucent thermal insulation and a focus on community engagement define a modular housing solution on Dongbaek Camellia Island, offering residents a sustainable living environment integrated with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent thermal insulation enhances energy efficiency while allowing natural light.
02
A modular design maximizes the use of limited land on Dongbaek Camellia Island.
03
Integration of traditional Gong Po framework brings cultural relevance to modern living.
04
Community spaces promote social interaction among residents and connect with nature.
05
Vertical patterns in the layout provide diverse spatial experiences and views.

Camellia Hill is located on Dongbaek Camellia Island in Busan, South Korea, harmonizing with its unique seaside and mountainous landscape. The modular housing design responds to the challenges of urban density while prioritizing sustainability. The concept emphasizes creating eco-friendly homes that offer a peaceful environment for residents and promote a connection with nature in a busy urban setting.

Architectural Strategy

The design uses a modular approach, emphasizing vertical development to make use of the limited land available on the island. This method allows for effective spatial organization and improves access to natural light and outdoor views, which are important for residents' well-being. The layout fosters community interaction, encouraging social connections between neighbors while still maintaining personal privacy within the home.

Cultural Integration

A key feature of Camellia Hill is its incorporation of Gong Po, a traditional Korean architectural system that provides both structural support and visual interest. This element connects the design to the local heritage and culture. The careful arrangement of spaces balances areas of fullness and emptiness, creating inviting communal gardens and inner courtyards. These spaces encourage residents to engage with their environment and one another.

Sustainability Features

The commitment to sustainability is apparent in various aspects of the design. Several energy-efficient systems are included, such as translucent thermal insulation and thermal storage units. These features work together to reduce energy consumption. The project also implements air collectors and water harvesting systems, along with photovoltaic panels to harness renewable energy. Ventilation is improved through strategically placed flaps and decentralized equipment, ensuring that fresh air circulates throughout the living spaces.

The careful arrangement of modular units not only meets the practical housing needs of residents but also creates inviting areas that encourage interaction with nature and foster a strong sense of community, culminating in a vibrant living environment shaped by the island's scenic beauty.

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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
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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