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Translucent Polycarbonate Shelter with Integrated Wooden Slats Supporting Community Engagement

Authors:
Laura Paz, Mateo Boasso
Translucent Polycarbonate Shelter with Integrated Wooden Slats Supporting Community Engagement
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Constructed with wooden slats and a translucent envelope, the shelter maximizes natural light and fosters community interactions, providing a functional space for travelers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a modular framework to enhance flexibility and ease of assembly.
02
Utilizes a translucent envelope that maximizes natural lighting while maintaining energy efficiency.
03
Incorporates wooden slats that contribute to both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features a layout that encourages continuous interaction with the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed to be energy self-sufficient through integrated solar panel systems.

The design presents a modular solution located in a natural setting, focused on providing a functional space for travelers. It serves as both shelter and communal area, allowing for various activities while reducing the need for external elements that can interfere with comfort. The concept emphasizes sustainable practices and efficient use of space, creating a strong relationship between the interior and exterior environments.

Natural Light and Energy Efficiency

The design features wooden slats and a translucent envelope that enhance the entry of natural light into the interior. This arrangement helps the structure utilize energy from solar panels by allowing light to fill the space during the day. The ability to store this energy for night use underscores the building's energy efficiency. The focus on natural lighting not only fulfills practical needs but also improves the overall experience for those who use the space.

Spatial Organization and Community Interaction

The layout maintains a direct connection with the surrounding landscape, positioning functional areas parallel to the building's envelopes. This design choice allows for a continuous flow of air, light, and sound. It also encourages people to come together, creating a welcoming area for sharing experiences and stories. The organization of spaces enhances interaction, supporting a sense of community among travelers who find themselves in this unique place.

Material Selection

Wood and polycarbonate are the materials chosen for their environmental benefits and usability. Wood contributes to thermal comfort, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere inside the structure. Polycarbonate, by allowing natural light to fill the building while maintaining energy efficiency, plays a vital role in the overall design. The careful selection of these materials shows a commitment to sustainability while keeping the design functional and effective.

The modular design allows for flexibility and straightforward construction. This thoughtful blending of materials, light, and spaces culminates in a structure that encourages connections among users while respecting the natural surroundings. A careful design detail, such as the way light filters through the slats, adds depth to the experience, enhancing the overall quality of the 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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