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Waterway-Inspired Design Featuring Volcanic Tuff and Green Spaces in a Dining Experience

Author:
Sebastian Kawalec
Waterway-Inspired Design Featuring Volcanic Tuff and Green Spaces in a Dining Experience
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Incorporating a central waterway alongside volcanic tuff and lush green spaces, the design creates an immersive dining experience that bridges the indoors with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a central waterway that connects indoor and outdoor environments.
02
Integrates volcanic tuff as a primary material for both aesthetics and durability.
03
Features guest observatories to enhance the dining experience through unique vantage points.
04
Incorporates a cascade garden that enhances natural light and guest interaction.
05
Multi-functional areas allow for flexible use beyond standard dining operations.

"The Secret Garden" is an architectural design inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel. The setting is a unique space that serves as both a restaurant and a multi-functional area, encouraging exploration and interaction with nature. The design concept contrasts a bold exterior with a welcoming interior, inviting visitors to experience a journey of discovery.

Architecture Concept

The central idea revolves around creating a hidden sanctuary. The exterior stands as a solid and imposing structure, generating curiosity about what lies inside. Upon entering, guests encounter an inviting atmosphere rich with greenery. This shift from a stark outside to a vibrant interior signifies a transition from the ordinary to the extraordinary. The layout emphasizes paths of exploration, guiding visitors through various levels and spaces.

Spatial Arrangement

The building features multiple levels arranged to promote a sense of journey. The third floor includes an entrance area, a reception space, and two hotel rooms, making the building versatile. A prominent staircase links the different levels, encouraging movement and exploration.

On the second floor, there are functional spaces such as a technical room, restrooms, and a multifunctional room, along with an administration area. A staircase included in a themed garden adds to the experience, inviting visitors to engage with both the practical aspects and the visual beauty of the design.

Material Selection

Materials are thoughtfully chosen to enhance both the appearance and functionality of the design. The project utilizes wooden panels, reinforced concrete, mineral wool, glass, volcanic tuff, geotextile, and waterproofing membrane. These elements ensure durability and contribute to an overall visual language that aligns with themes of nature and sustainability.

Design Detail

A key feature of the design is the central garden, which includes a waterway. This element creates a sensory connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. It encourages visitors to appreciate the natural landscape while being in a controlled environment. The garden reinforces the theme of the project, acting as a hidden oasis waiting to be explored.

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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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