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Vertical Elements and Artful Geometries in Urban Connectivity

Authors:
Moataz Hassaan, Ziad Bassiouny
Vertical Elements and Artful Geometries in Urban Connectivity
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Stacked vertical blocks create a modern silhouette that contrasts with the surrounding historical architecture, enhancing urban connectivity through thoughtful pedestrian pathways and inviting public spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dual vertical and horizontal architectural elements create a dynamic contrast with historic buildings.
02
The design incorporates minimalistic geometries inspired by contemporary art.
03
An escalator system enhances pedestrian accessibility from the railway.
04
Focus on reducing embodied carbon underscores environmental responsibility.
05
Public spaces are integrated to encourage social interaction and engagement.

The Divergent Essen Tower, located at Essen Hauptbahnhof in Germany, stands out as a contemporary addition to the urban landscape. The project is designed to minimize carbon emissions while improving connections in a busy railway area. The concept features a balance of vertical and horizontal elements, making a distinct statement in the city.

Design Concept

The tower consists of a vertical component complemented by horizontal sections. This design creates a lively contrast to the older buildings in the vicinity, which are darker and more traditional in appearance. The upward stacking of blocks not only represents a modern architectural style but also signifies a shift in the cultural narrative of the area.

Ground-Level Interaction

The focus on pedestrian movement is an important aspect of the design. The structure is laid out to guide visitors, with an escalator system providing access from the Essen railway to public areas, including lounges and waiting spaces. This organization aims to create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages social interaction and easy navigation through different areas of the building.

Façade Design

The façade is inspired by contemporary artistic principles, particularly influenced by the works of Marianna Copello. It features simple geometric shapes and designated openings that add layers of depth and prevent a monotonous appearance. This approach ties the visual aspects of the building to its functional use, making it suitable for both art and architecture.

Sustainability Focus

While specific materials are not mentioned, the design emphasizes sustainable building practices. Attention to lowering the carbon footprint is part of the project’s core values. These principles are closely integrated with the overall vision, contributing to a solid building concept that respects the environment and its surroundings.

The tower rises gracefully, with lighter elements at the upper levels that create an impression of reaching toward the sky, promoting a feeling of openness and upward movement in the design.

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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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