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Vigaria Marble Residence with Biophilic Design Elements in a Natural Landscape

Vigaria Marble Residence with Biophilic Design Elements in a Natural Landscape
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Crafted with locally-sourced Vigaria marble and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding flora, the residence prioritizes natural light and ecological sustainability, serving as a modern family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally-sourced Vigaria marble, enhancing regional identity.
02
Features a biophilic design that integrates indoor and outdoor spaces through large windows.
03
Incorporates a biodiversity pond to support local flora and fauna.
04
Utilizes Kingspan Kooltherm K-15 insulation for improved thermal efficiency.
05
Designed with an open-plan layout that promotes natural ventilation and light.

## Overview and Context

The Vigaria Home is located within Sintra Natural Park, Portugal, approximately 50 meters above sea level. The site’s unique geographical features, including a backdrop of pine trees and ocean views, inform its architectural design, which prioritizes ecological sensitivity and contemporary aesthetics. The home integrates locally sourced Vigaria marble, reflecting both regional materiality and heritage.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design promotes a comfortable living environment by optimizing natural light and airflow. A large window connects the interior to the surrounding landscape, offering expansive views. The spatial arrangement creates distinct zones that facilitate both social interaction and privacy. Key features include a spacious living room that opens onto an outdoor terrace, a tranquil bedroom designed for privacy with limited window openings, and a bathroom that maximizes natural light while incorporating environmentally friendly products. The floor plan encourages fluid movement throughout the home, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette underscores a commitment to sustainability and durability. The use of Vigaria marble, coupled with 8 cm thick marble bricks, establishes a robust façade while maintaining aesthetic cohesion. The timber frame, treated with eco-friendly coatings, enhances indoor air quality. Sustainable practices are further implemented through the use of Kingspan Kooltherm K-15 insulation, which improves thermal performance, and a Slimline Water Tank designed for rainwater recycling. Additional features, such as natural ventilation openings and a biodiversity pond, support local ecosystems and reduce reliance on municipal water supplies. These elements collectively signify a forward-thinking approach to residential architecture with an emphasis on minimal environmental impact.

### Materials and Construction Details

- **Vigaria Marble**: Block Size: 150 x 50 mm, Thickness: 50 mm
- **Timber Construction Elements**: Natural wood panels
- **Concrete**: Made from sustainable materials
- **Wall Insulation**: Kingspan Kooltherm K-15
- **Water System**: Slimline Water Tank
- **Aluminium Coping**: Provides structural integrity
- **Additional Features**: Kingspan Solurate 160 DS Light for enhanced natural lighting, and Casein Paint for walls

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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