Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Twisted Shell Structure Offering Urban Refuge

Author:
Kinga Zajac
Twisted Shell Structure Offering Urban Refuge
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
The twisted shell-shaped structure provides a protective urban sanctuary that encourages reflection and social interaction through its unique openwork design and face-to-face seating arrangement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisted form mimics deep-sea shell structures.
02
Openwork design allows natural light and views.
03
Diagonal seating enhances face-to-face interaction.
04
Serves as an urban refuge amid Tokyo’s bustle.
05
Encourages moments of reflection and solitude.

The project titled "Shell" is located in Tokyo, a city deeply connected to the sea due to its history as a fishing settlement. The design serves as a protective space for individuals, inspired by the natural armor of deep-sea creatures. The aim is to create a refuge from the busy urban environment while also encouraging interaction with the surroundings.

Concept and Form

The cabin has a twisted shape that resembles a shell. This form is both visually interesting and practical. It offers users a feeling of safety, inviting them to engage in quiet reflection. The design fits well within the natural landscape, echoing the shapes found in nature.



Openwork Design

One of the key features of the cabin is its openwork structure. This allows light to enter while providing separation from the outside crowd. The result is a peaceful environment that encourages introspection. Users can also observe the vibrant world outside, adding to their experience of solitude.



Seating Arrangement

Inside, the seating is arranged diagonally across from each other. This layout promotes direct communication between occupants. In today’s digital age, where face-to-face conversations are reduced, this arrangement fosters deeper connections. It allows people to engage with one another in a quiet, sheltered setting.



Material Considerations

While the presentation does not specify materials, the design suggests the need for lightweight and durable options. Such materials would support the structural goals of the cabin, helping it endure the urban conditions while remaining unobtrusive in the environment.



Natural Integration

The essence of "Shell" is its balance between comfort and a connection to nature. It offers a calm space amidst the lively pace of Tokyo. The interaction of light and shadow through the openwork design enhances the bond between interior and exterior, highlighting how the form engages with the natural world.

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