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Treehousing Through Deconstruction with Community Roots

Author:
Wolfgang Lackner
Treehousing Through Deconstruction with Community Roots
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By reimagining the use of local trees through careful deconstruction techniques, the design creates adaptable living spaces that foster community connection and ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local trees through a deconstruction approach for building materials.
02
Adaptable design allows customization to fit various community needs.
03
Incorporates natural elements to enhance ecological integration.
04
Features intricate joinery that highlights the craftsmanship of tree construction.
05
Engages local residents in the building process, fostering a sense of community.

The design emphasizes a strong connection to nature, reflecting a relationship between human living spaces and the surrounding environment. Situated in a context that blends built structures with natural elements, the project seeks to redefine housing through practical yet innovative concepts. The goal is to create living spaces that work in harmony with their surroundings, focusing on a sustainable approach that respects local materials and ecological systems.

Conceptual Framework

The project involves a careful examination of traditional housing styles, showcasing the process of reworking trees into functional building elements. This includes slicing, sawing, and gluing trees back together. Here, trees are not just raw materials; they become integral parts of a new design. The approach balances the beauty of nature with the needs of human use, creating a thoughtful relationship between the two.

Adaptability and Community Engagement

Flexibility is a key feature, allowing various sizes and designs to cater to different needs and preferences. This adaptability makes it easier for the living space to fit within its environment. Furthermore, the project emphasizes community involvement, encouraging local residents to participate in the construction process. This involvement fosters a deeper connection to the space, enhancing the sense of ownership among the people who will live there.

Sustainable Practices

There is a clear focus on sourcing trees from the local environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. While specific materials are not detailed, the use of organic elements underscores an intent to reduce environmental impact. This design promotes a responsible form of architecture that values ecological relationships while addressing human needs.

The final design features intricate joinery techniques that reveal the beauty and strength of the trees used. These details not only highlight the skill involved in the construction but also serve as a gentle reminder of the natural source of the materials. The completed structure stands as a quiet testament to the harmony between human habitation and the earth.

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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.

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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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