Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!
Thermal Mass and Natural Ventilation in a Rammed Earth Home Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with rammed earth and complemented by natural ventilation strategies, this dwelling maximizes environmental synergy while providing a functional living space in a challenging desert climate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth construction for thermal mass and durability.
02
Features a central courtyard designed for communal interaction and natural cooling.
03
Employs strategically placed overhangs to optimize sunlight and reduce heat gain.
04
Integrates water features that enhance cooling and connect residents to the environment.
05
Incorporates a bioclimatic design approach to maximize energy efficiency and comfort.

## Project Overview

**Project Name:** Terra Lumina
**Location:** Arizona, USA

Terra Lumina is designed to respond to the climatic and geographical conditions of Arizona, characterized by intense sunlight and fluctuating temperatures. The project integrates functional design elements with sustainable practices, aiming to enhance occupant comfort while reducing environmental impact. The layout thoughtfully aligns with the sun's trajectory, optimizing the use of natural light throughout the day.

### Spatial Strategy and Organization

The design features a central courtyard that serves as the core of the residence, surrounded by various functional spaces. This courtyard promotes communal interaction and facilitates natural ventilation, while expansive views from living and dining areas invite the landscape indoors. Private spaces, including bedrooms and bathrooms, are strategically positioned to ensure privacy without sacrificing access to natural light and airflow. The incorporation of cylindrical forms allows for fluid transitions between spaces, enhancing the overall spatial experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Terra Lumina employs a range of materials that emphasize its connection to the local environment and its commitment to sustainability. Key materials include rammed earth, which provides thermal mass for temperature regulation, and wooden beams, which add structural integrity and warmth. Natural stone is utilized in seating and food preparation areas, reinforcing the relationship between occupants and the surrounding landscape. The project also incorporates innovative features such as reflecting pools that contribute to environmental comfort and a dynamic lighting system that adjusts to varying daylight conditions, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant well-being.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in