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Volcanic Ash Structure with Organic Forms and Green Ramps

Authors:
Paolo Piscitelli, Federica Iorio, Angela Palumbo, Giandomenico Tammaro
Volcanic Ash Structure with Organic Forms and Green Ramps
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Constructed with volcanic ash, the design incorporates organic forms and green ramps, creating a cohesive space for social interaction and exhibition activities amid the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with concrete made from volcanic ash, enhancing ecological integration.
02
Features a covered courtyard that serves as a central green space connecting two functional blocks.
03
Incorporates *canons à lumière* in the roof design, maximizing natural light throughout the interior.
04
Utilizes locally-sourced wood herringbone parquet to add warmth to the first level.
05
Includes ramps for accessibility, facilitating movement between levels while promoting social interaction.

The "IN OUT VOLCANO" architectural design is situated in a landscape influenced by volcanic formations. It features a dual-block configuration that echoes the natural conical shape of a volcano. The layout integrates functional spaces on two levels, fostering interaction among visitors. The design concept highlights a strong connection to nature, directing views toward the horizon and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Design Concept

The project has sloping facades that enhance views of the natural environment, allowing both blocks to engage with the landscape. A central covered courtyard at the lower level acts as a green space, linking the two functional blocks. Ramps enable easy movement throughout the building, encouraging a flow that enhances social interaction and a sense of community.

Natural Light Integration

Natural light plays a significant role in the experience of the spaces. Light enters through slits in the facades and is further enhanced by *canons à lumière* on the roofs. This design brings warmth and brightness to the interiors while creating varied visual angles for those inside. The relationship between light and space encourages a connection to the natural surroundings, making the experience enjoyable for visitors.

Interior Spaces

The coffee area spans two levels, offering a setting for social interaction. In the courtyard, tables and chairs allow visitors to gather amid greenery. The bar area on the entrance level offers seating at the counter and in the surrounding area, with furniture designed to complement the overall aesthetic. This arrangement creates a welcoming environment that promotes engagement among visitors.

Material Selection

The choice of materials enhances the project’s ecological approach. Concrete made from volcanic ash forms the main structure, providing durability while resonating with the volcanic landscape. The external walls utilize reinforced concrete, maintaining visual continuity with the environment. Inside, the first level features locally-sourced wood herringbone parquet, which adds a warm touch, while polished concrete flooring at level -3.00 m serves a practical purpose of ensuring resilience and ease of cleaning.

The careful selection of materials supports the overall design, emphasizing a connection between the built form and its natural context. Each element works together to create an environment that invites exploration and appreciation of the landscape.

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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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