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Water-Enveloped Dwelling with Net Domes for Nature-Based Living

Authors:
Minyoung Choi, Grace Davidson
Water-Enveloped Dwelling with Net Domes for Nature-Based Living
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Surrounded by a reflective water shell and topped with net domes, the dwelling offers a unique blend of privacy and natural light, serving as both a home and a resting area for those traversing the forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Surrounded by a reflective pond that enhances privacy and natural light.
02
Incorporates two net domes that promote ecological integration and provide ample daylight.
03
Vegetation planned on dome surfaces to strengthen the connection with the natural environment.
04
Urban function as both a dwelling and an adaptable rest area for travelers in the forest.
05
Designed to facilitate a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor experiences.

Winter Virtual Land presents a unique dwelling set in a snowy field at the edge of a forest. This design functions both as a home and as a resting place for those journeying through nature. The concept focuses on establishing a close relationship between the built environment and the natural world. It fosters quiet moments of thought and prepares individuals for their adventures ahead.

Water Feature

A significant aspect of Winter Virtual Land is the water surrounding the structure. This water shell creates privacy while letting natural light fill the interior. The water's surface reflects the sky and trees, effectively joining the home with the pond. This connection blurs the lines between inside and outside, enhancing the feeling of being immersed in nature.

Dome Structures

The design includes two net domes positioned on top of the dwelling. These domes provide privacy while allowing sunlight to enter freely. This arrangement creates a bright and open atmosphere, encouraging occupants to appreciate the landscape from within. The inclusion of vegetation on these domes is an additional feature that promotes sustainable living and ties the structure even closer to its environment.

Spatial Organization

Ground, first, and second-floor layouts are designed to maximize both convenience and flow. Public spaces, identified in yellow on the plans, encourage social interaction, while private areas, shown in purple, provide a sense of retreat. Clear pathways for movement throughout the home are organized in distinct colors for easy navigation, ensuring that every part of the residence is accessible and functional.

Contextual Integration

The building is thoughtfully placed in relation to the pond and forest, evident in the top and site plans. Elevations illustrate the dwelling’s exterior from various angles, highlighting its connection to the land. This careful context awareness emphasizes how the architecture responds to the natural landscape, creating a cohesive relationship between building and site.

In its design, the combination of water and greenery not only enhances the visual appeal but also reflects an awareness of ecological responsibility. This approach offers an example for future residential designs that aim to harmonize living spaces with the surrounding environment.

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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.

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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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