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Wooden Beams and Metal Flanges Shape Flexible Living Spaces in Sustainable Design

Authors:
Alejandro Ricote, Diego Sierra, Miriam Engelmayer, Alejandro Cárdenas
Wooden Beams and Metal Flanges Shape Flexible Living Spaces in Sustainable Design
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The integration of wooden beams and metal flanges creates flexible living spaces that prioritize sustainability and adaptability, supporting a modern lifestyle through multifunctional design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lightweight wooden beams enable flexible design configurations.
02
Metal flanges connect panels, enhancing structural integrity.
03
The central patio facilitates rainwater collection and natural ventilation.
04
Modules can be easily transported for relocation or adaptation.
05
Sustainable features include solar energy integration for eco-friendly living.

HABITAR explores the concept of living spaces through a thoughtful design that emphasizes the importance of true habitation. The project reflects a vision that extends beyond mere physical structures, advocating for environments that support both interaction and solitude. Inspired by ideas from philosopher Martín Heidegger, it positions the home as a dynamic entity, adaptable to the rhythms of everyday life. The design employs modularity and flexibility, catering to various needs of its users in any setting.

Concept and Spatial Organization

The design focuses on creating multipurpose areas that adapt to different activities. It encourages social gatherings while also providing private spaces. Strategic thresholds define different zones, allowing inhabitants to connect or retreat as necessary. A central patio emerges as a central feature, providing natural light and airflow throughout the interior. This open area fosters a sense of community and supports diverse daily activities, highlighting the fluidity of living.

Materiality and Structural Elements

Lightweight wooden beams form the primary structure, offering strength while maintaining flexibility in design. These beams are paired with metal flanges, which articulate the panels and enhance their connection within the overall layout. This combination of materials enhances the functionality of each space, allowing for adjustments based on the occupants' needs. The simplicity and effectiveness of these choices reinforce the overall intent of the design.

Sustainability and Resource Management

Sustainability is a core principle in the design, with features that promote environmental responsibility. The central patio not only serves as a gathering space but also plays a vital role in resource management by capturing rainwater. Solar energy solutions are integrated into the structure, underscoring the commitment to eco-friendly living. This approach not only increases the building’s efficiency but also aligns with current expectations for sustainable architecture.

Transportability and Modularity

The design’s transportable nature offers practical benefits, allowing for easy relocation or adaptation. The main living units can be transported in two trips, reflecting an efficient use of modular design. This operational flexibility makes it suitable for various geographical contexts, emphasizing the adaptability of the concept in different environments.

Sunlight filters through the modular panels, creating playful patterns on the floors, a constant reminder of the relationship between inhabitants and their surroundings.

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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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