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Undulating Roof Design Blending Natural Light and Therapeutic Spaces with Cedar Shingles

Undulating Roof Design Blending Natural Light and Therapeutic Spaces with Cedar Shingles
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The undulating roof structure, crafted from cedar shingles, harmonizes natural light and therapeutic spaces in a circular layout designed to provide a comforting environment for end-of-life care.
5 key facts about this project
01
The circular layout promotes communal interaction while providing private reflection spaces.
02
An undulating roof design mimics natural landscape contours for enhanced integration with the environment.
03
Large glass façades maximize natural light, connecting residents to the surrounding coastal views.
04
Therapeutic spaces are designed to facilitate holistic healing practices within the hospice setting.
05
Native plants are incorporated into the landscaping, creating a calming and restorative atmosphere.

## Overview

Poppy Acres is located in San Diego and serves as a retreat for individuals in the later stages of life. The design aims to create an environment that respects the natural process of dying while fostering an atmosphere that supports both emotional well-being and family engagement. The architectural layout and material choices reflect an intent to enhance tranquility and connection to nature.

## Site Layout and Spatial Organization

The layout of Poppy Acres is characterized by a circular configuration that promotes both community interaction and personal reflection. Key areas are interlinked to facilitate accessibility, while also orienting around picturesque ocean views that enhance the overall experience. Central to this design is an open-air courtyard, which serves as a focal point, inviting interaction and introspection through landscaped gardens and seating areas.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration

The selection of materials for Poppy Acres has been carried out with care to ensure harmony with the natural surroundings. Concrete is utilized for durability in structural elements and pathways, while softer woods are incorporated to create a warm atmosphere. Large glass windows are installed to optimize natural light, providing uninterrupted views of the landscape and reinforcing the indoor-outdoor connection. Additionally, the landscape features native plants, including California poppies, which contribute to a serene environment and symbolize renewal, further integrating the building within its ecological context.

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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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