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Venetian Skin and Dark Concrete Forming a New Equestrian Heritage Hub

Author:
Hon Chi Leung
Venetian Skin and Dark Concrete Forming a New Equestrian Heritage Hub
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The introduction of Venetian painting and dark concrete creates a distinct aesthetic in a former school, transforming it into a museum dedicated to local horse breeds and equestrian culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features a dark concrete strip that enhances the building's visual identity.
02
A glass bridge connects different levels, promoting transparency and flow.
03
Venetian painting is used as a tactile reference to horse skin within the interiors.
04
The layout shifts from a square to a fluid configuration for better visitor engagement.
05
Artist studios are integrated to foster community collaboration alongside exhibition spaces.

The Omuli Museum project aims to repurpose the historic Omuli Primary School, located in the village of Omuli, Northern Latvia. Originally built in 1936, this school is becoming a museum focused on local horse breeds and equestrian culture. The design concept emphasizes maintaining the building’s original shape while incorporating modern features that enhance visitor interaction and overall functionality.

Architectural Concept

The main concept centers on preserving the heritage of the original structure while adding contemporary features. The design reconfigures the layout from a traditional square shape to a more fluid arrangement. This change encourages better visitor movement throughout the museum and reflects the active nature of equestrian events, allowing guests to engage more deeply with the exhibits and performances.

Design Modifications

Several modifications are made to update the facility and improve its visual appeal. A dark concrete strip adds contrast to the existing architecture, serving as a focal point that draws attention. Solutions like a glass bridge on the second floor enhance openness and connection between different areas of the museum. Solar panels on the roof represent a practical commitment to sustainability and environmental care.

Functional Spaces

Different kinds of spaces are included in the museum, such as communal areas and artist studios. These spaces support a range of activities, making the museum a community center for both artists and visitors. The design focuses on flexibility, allowing spaces to serve various purposes and promoting creative interactions among users.

Design Details

Materials are carefully chosen to support the museum's theme. Venetian painting represents the texture of horse skin, while metal symbolizes horseshoes. These elements provide a visual and tactile connection to the equestrian focus. Inside, the “WOW” area features patterned tiles and customized lighting, which creates an engaging atmosphere aimed at captivating visitors and enriching their experience of the museum's cultural offerings.

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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

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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