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Timber Structure Embracing Community with High-Rise Gardens and Cultural Symbolism

Authors:
Rafael Mourão, Carolina Leschot, Caio Caccaos
Timber Structure Embracing Community with High-Rise Gardens and Cultural Symbolism
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Constructed using cross-laminated timber and crowned with high-rise gardens, the tower serves as a multifunctional shelter and research center, deeply embedded with cultural symbolism reflective of the Yanomami community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber to enhance sustainability.
02
Features high-rise gardens that support food cultivation and community interaction.
03
Incorporates geometry inspired by Yanomami cultural symbols.
04
Designed to maximize natural light and ventilation for energy efficiency.
05
Provides immediate access to healthcare services on lower floors.

The HYN'MA Tower rises in the Amazon forest, serving as a multifaceted solution for the Yanomami tribe. The structure addresses serious challenges posed by gold mining and environmental changes. The design concept is rooted in cultural significance, embodying healing, unity, and a deep connection to nature through its form and function.

Cultural Integration

The design incorporates significant symbols of the Yanomami people, such as URIHI (vegetation/forest), PATA U (river/water), HEHU (mountain), and NIKO (union). These elements create a strong visual identity that resonates with the natural environment. The building reflects the cultural heritage of the tribe while strengthening their relationship with the land they inhabit.

Functional Versatility

Serving as a shelter and research center, the tower provides critical services, including healthcare and climate research facilities. Healthcare is located on lower floors to ensure quick access for those affected by environmental issues. Research areas are positioned above, representing growth and knowledge. This layout enhances safety and encourages social interaction among the Yanomami community.

Sustainability Strategies

Sustainability is a key focus of the HYN'MA Tower’s design. The structure is oriented to maximize natural light and airflow, reducing the need for artificial cooling. Features such as rainwater harvesting systems and high-rise gardens promote ecological efficiency and support food growing. The design balances aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that environmental considerations are integral to the tower.

Structural Components

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is used for flooring, while glued laminated timber (Glulam) supports the columns. These materials are important for sustainability and strength, meeting modern practices aimed at minimizing environmental impact. The use of timber connects the tower to the natural surroundings, allowing it to fit seamlessly into the forest landscape.

As one approaches the entrance, the continuous thatch roof signals a welcoming space. This design element embodies shelter and community, inviting inhabitants to gather and connect within the protective surroundings of the tower.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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