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Washi Core and Stone Ring Structure for Meditative Community Interaction

Authors:
Marcel Dawid, Anita Wiśniewska, Brian Dam
Washi Core and Stone Ring Structure for Meditative Community Interaction
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A core crafted from washi material and surrounded by a stone ring supports a flexible structure designed for meditation and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a washi core, enhancing the meditative experience.
02
A flexible ring system allows for infinite expansion and adaptability.
03
Stone and soil are utilized in the outer ring to encourage plant growth.
04
Circular design promotes non-linear user navigation throughout the space.
05
Distinct zones for work, relaxation, and social interaction are clearly defined.

The Ophanim combines celestial, symbolic, and functional elements to create an engaging space. It is designed to act as an enclosure, a transitional area, and a meditative focal point. Set within a virtual context, it emphasizes the importance of symbolism, allowing users to connect deeply with their surroundings while moving away from traditional approaches to material use.

Circular Form as a Design Element

The circular shape of the Ophanim plays a vital role in defining user experience within the vast open environment. This geometry allows for non-linear organization, giving users the ability to move effortlessly among various functional areas. By placing individuals at the center, the design encourages a natural flow and connection, challenging conventional architectural movement.

Adaptive Ring System

The project features an innovative ring system that accommodates growth through the addition of offset modules. This flexibility allows the space to adjust to the needs of its users, facilitating various interactions. By minimizing visible mechanisms, the design promotes a sense of immersion in the space, enhancing the overall experience.

Material Considerations

While the emphasis is on symbolic and experiential elements, material choices help reinforce the project’s objectives. The core is made of washi material, which supports meditative focus for users. The outer ring employs stone and soil, fostering an open social area that encourages plant growth and reflects the feel of gathering spaces in nature.

Spatial Zones and User Interaction

The careful arrangement of different zones within the Ophanim creates specific areas for working, relaxing, and socializing. Each zone operates independently yet contributes to a unified user experience. Encouraging exploration, the design supports interactions between people and their surroundings. This thoughtful organization highlights functionality while enriching the overall journey.

In the end, the design invites quiet reflection at its core, while the surrounding spaces promote community and collaboration. This attention to detail creates a rich environment that connects users to their architectural setting.

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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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