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Water-Focused Atrium in Concrete and Glass Amidst Natural Landscapes

Water-Focused Atrium in Concrete and Glass Amidst Natural Landscapes
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An atrium with a central water feature and extensive glass façades merges indoor and outdoor spaces while utilizing concrete and wood to create a functional residence that emphasizes natural light and landscape integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Water feature functions as a central light source, enhancing the interior brightness.
02
Garden atriums provide natural ventilation and create private outdoor spaces.
03
The sloped roof design maximizes daylight intake and reduces energy costs.
04
Sustainable materials include local concrete and reclaimed wood, minimizing environmental impact.
05
Open-plan layout promotes spatial flexibility for various functions and living styles.

### Project Overview
"The Home of Shadows" is a modern residential design located in a tranquil setting characterized by abundant greenery and open landscapes. The project aims to redefine residential living through the integration of natural light, outdoor spaces, and minimalist aesthetics, fostering an environment that enhances the quality of life for its inhabitants.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The residence features a square footprint with two internal garden atriums created by subtracting smaller squares from the main volume. This configuration facilitates a dynamic relationship between private and communal spaces while seamlessly incorporating nature into the living environment. Central to the design is an atrium that includes a reflective water element, serving as both a visual focal point and a light-enhancing feature. The sloped roofs are designed to maximize daylight intake, ensuring a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout the interior, thereby enriching the daily experiences of the residents.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette of "The Home of Shadows" reflects a commitment to modern sustainable practices. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, offering durability and thermal mass. Extensive use of glass in façades promotes transparency and visual connectivity with the surroundings, effectively blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Wood is incorporated in flooring and structural details, contributing warmth and natural texture, while steel elements provide structural integrity with a refined aesthetic. Sustainability is further emphasized through the design's incorporation of natural ventilation, passive solar heating, and eco-friendly materials, aligning with contemporary architectural principles that prioritize environmental responsibility.

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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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