Architecture Competition Winners | Hall of Fame

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CLOSED COMPETITION WINNERS

This page is a celebration of the best architectural designs from our international architecture competitions.

These designs represent the best in creativity, innovation, and sustainability.

The project depicts an acupuncture-like architectural intervention in the degraded area of an open-pit lignite coal mine. It acts as a part of the
reclamation of the "biggest hole" in Europe, the reclamation set to commence after 2030, following the decommissioning of the last power plant
blocks. The overarching goal is to mitigate the effects of prolonged invasive anthropogenic pressure on the natural environment near the
Belchatow Power Plant. The pavilion aims to contribute to a redefinition of the anthropogenic landscape through its biophilic character. It is a
manifestation of changes occurring in architecture in response to the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and degradation of natural ecosystems. The
project includes a multifunctional cultural centre with exhibition, workshop, and performance spaces. Its objective is to preserve the site's
memory and create architecture that restores the connection of this place with nature.
Paradise Lost
The poetic John Milton’s Pandemonium, i.e., hell, home, and the core of evil, symbolizes the surreal image of a post-industrial area of an exploited
lignite open-pit mine. The Pandemonium motif also references Dante's Inferno and its hellish circles. These circles are geometrically related to
the stepped topography of the deep excavation. The dramatic excavation represents the triumph of man on Earth, industrial development, and
the achievements of civilization. However, this comes at the cost of significant disruption to the natural topography, resulting in changes to
surface and groundwater conditions and the destruction of ecosystems.
The extraction of lignite is conditioned by the preemptive dewatering of the deposit, which results in environmental changes both near the
excavation and at a considerable distance from it. The dewatering of the deposit, necessary to ensure safe mining conditions, has led to the
formation of a cone of depression. The natural consequences of this formation include a lowering of the groundwater level, the disappearance
of water in wells, a reduction in the flow of surface streams, a decrease in soil moisture content, and consequently, a decline in agricultural yields
and productivity. Additionally, there has been a reduction in water resources in forested areas, subsequently leading to damage to the forest
stands.
The path of deconstruction of the human order on Earth
The path is a symbolic representation of the changes that will occur in the transformed area over the coming years. The pavilion is intended to
be the culmination of a multi-year process of transforming the excavation site, with its architecture symbolizing the multidimensional nature of
the revitalization process. It embodies the idea of change and outlines the direction of future interventions in the extensive excavation area. The
various points of the museum exhibition serve as snapshots of the revitalization process, functioning as a tool to narrate the story of
anthropogenic pressure and highlight the contrast between our past, present, and future approaches to our relationship with nature.
The described "human order" is understood as an anthropocentric reality, in which the processes occurring on the planet are strictly controlled
by humans and framed within the bounds of human cognition. This is symbolized by the symmetrical geometric shapes in the plan of the pavilion,
which, from the perspective of the museum visitor, are seen as spatial figures undergoing gradual deconstruction, breaking down into their basic
components—from a cube, through its skeleton, separated walls, to randomly scattered fragments of the original form.
Parallel to the geometric deconstruction, there is a gradation in the intensity of vegetation present within the pavilion. This represents the
chronological transformations occurring in the excavation area as part of the reclamation process. At the beginning of the path, vegetation is
absent, and the visitor is surrounded by darkness, geometrized forms, and artefacts from the inanimate natural world—sand, soil, stones, and
lignite. Gradually, vegetation begins to appear in the surface, initially arranged in compositions created by human hands. Subsequently, parts of
the degraded land become covered with water, ultimately leading to a reconstruction of a natural ecosystem, where living nature prevails.
Paradise Regained
In the project, the regained paradise is represented by the reclaimed surroundings of the pavilion, culminating near the overwater terraces. The
terraces mark the end of the museum tour and allow visitors to find themselves in the midst of a poetic paradise, taking the form of a landscape
art piece shaped by a cluster of water lilies. The circular shape of the composition refers to the former excavation site transformed into a lake
with developing new ecosystems. The lost paradise is placed in the category of inaccessibility for humans, who have ceased to be earthly usurpers,
relinquishing to nature its ability for free and spontaneous self-creation.
The plant composition serves as a backdrop for museum visitors, laboratories, a café, and a roof designed as a walking garden. From the pavilion's
roof, one can observe its circular shape more closely, while from the lower terraces, it appears as an expansive layer of greenery extending over
the lake surface. The regained paradise embodies the realization of symbiosis between humans and nature, where both have a subjective
character. Reclamation involves the coexistence of multiple plant and animal species in the transformed area. These are to form ecosystems
studied by users of the laboratory within the pavilion. In this scenario, humans act as observers and helpers of nature, rather than its dominant
shaper.

Honourable Mention

Quarry Biophilic Pavilion Design

The design site is a developed Dinorwic quarry near the village of Llanberis in Gwyneth County in Wales.
Dinorwic Quarry is a large former slate quarry. In its heyday, it was the second largest in the world. Since its closure, the quarry has become the location of the Industrial Slate Museum, which is on the list of National Museums in Wales. The area is also a popular location for various filming and belongs to the huge Snowdonia National Park. At the same time, the design site is not included in the nature protection zone of the park.
Llanberis is the centre of Snowdonia's outdoor activities, including hiking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking and pony trekking, as well as water sports such as scuba diving in Llyn Peris Lake. There is not enough entertainment function for a variety of the tourist spectrum.

Wales is called the land of songs because it is known for its rich musical culture, including traditional songs, poetry, dance and instrumental music.
The Welsh language (known as Welsh) has a rich history, carefully preserved by the people of the region. The Welsh language remains alive; it is used in the daily lives of many thousands of people and is present everywhere in Wales
Wales is also known for its musical instruments. The national instrument of Wales is a triple, three-row harp.
Music is an important part of the Welsh identity and helps to preserve and develop the country's unique cultural heritage.

When forming the spatial structure and appearance of the building, the main conceptual components were the culture of Wales, national identity, memory of the place (slate quarry). The formation is based on the metaphor of the musical spirit, which has been in the bowels of the earth for a long time and finally broke out with force and aspires upward to the sky. There is a slight hint of a traditional Welsh harp in the solution of the main facade. The sound waves created by the musical variety are also used in the elements of the architectural solutions of the complex.
The building consists of several functional blocks
Level 1
- lobby
- cafe area
- 2 halls
-artistic block
Level 2
- music audio library
- recording studios
Level 3 – exhibition space
Level 4 – administrative block
Level 5 - restaurant
Level 6 – technical floor

The urban planning concept assumes the harmonious integration of the complex's facilities into the existing landscape of the territory, taking into account the existing transport and pedestrian routes.

In addition to the main building of the music culture center, there is an outdoor amphitheater for various events, as well as a hotel for visitors, artists, and seasonal staff.
Road transport logistics for various purposes (entrance and parking of visitors, staff, office loading of the complex) is mainly carried out from the eastern side of the site. Additional spatial communications are a cable car and outdoor panoramic elevators.
Walking trails, recreational areas, and observation decks are provided for contemplative immersion in the picturesque natural environment of the projected object.

A little more about the functional and planning structure of the main building
The 1st level of the facility includes
- lobby
- cafe area with a block of utility rooms
- 2 concert halls with the possibility of transformation
- the artistic block and the service rooms of the premises
Level 2
- music audio library
- recording studios
Level 3 – exhibition space
Level 4 – administrative floor
Level 5 is a restaurant with an outdoor seasonal playground connected by a bridge to the cable car station
Level 6 – technical floor
A helipad is located on the upper level
An important element of the object is the curved outer shell with the function of a media facade.
Structurally, it is a core spatial structure made of steel tubular nodal systems, covered with a shell of partially light–transparent carbonate.
The media grid itself is a flexible, lightweight transparent grid on which different-sized LEDs are mounted.
Slide 8 (view frame)
Here is a view frame of the main entrance group, in the lobby of the center for musical culture.

The main functional and planning element of the design object are two concert halls with 500 seats and 200 seats located at the entrance lobby level. The first hall involves classical music concerts. The second hall is a platform for cutting-edge light and music performances.
These halls have several transformation options. For example, a large hall can be combined with a small one for a larger concert event. In addition to the scenic versatility, the transformation of the halls symbolizes the synthesis of the traditional and relevant musical culture of Wales.

On the second level there is an Audio Library, in the space of which there are various collections of audio files, different types of music, audiobooks, etc. The peculiarity of this audio library is the presence of Celtic ethnic music. For more private listening, special booths have been developed, which provide all the amenities and equipment.
Recording studios where compositions are recorded by various local music groups. Some of these recordings are sent to the audio library. There is also an amateur recording studio, which is a "small attraction" for visitors. Anyone can record their own composition and take it for themselves.
Outside the building, under a light translucent canopy, there is an outdoor concert venue, a kind of musical lounge, for seasonal performances with special natural acoustics.

The project pays attention to the evening architectural lighting of the facility, which emphasizes the spectacular function of the events held, and also makes the building of the Center a kind of attractive lighthouse in the predominantly damp and foggy weather of Wales.

The project pays attention to the evening architectural lighting of the facility, which emphasizes the spectacular function of the events held, and also makes the building of the Center a kind of attractive lighthouse in the predominantly damp and foggy weather of Wales.

For the convenience of visitors, a special website has been developed that will allow you to purchase tickets to any event of the Welsh Music Culture Center at any time.

Honourable Mention

Quarry Regenerative Landscaping Design

Honourable Mention

Quarry Concert Hall Design

Project Concept
The project of floating sauna draws inspiration from unique natural phenomenon that occurs in the Norwegian fjords: home to mysterious jellyfish that occasionally rise from the depths of the fjords.
Like a jellyfish, the sauna «rises» from the depths of the fjord, creating and enhancing an emotional and visual connection with nature.

Architectural Form
Essentially, the sauna consists of two major parts: white frosted glass shell that covers more colorful and complex inner form of «jellyfish». The inner structure is made from recycled moisture-resistant styrofoam and glows in shades of red and orange. This eco-friendly material serves as the core of the floating sauna. Various lighting angles generate a rich palette of visual effects, ranging from almost opaque matte to nearly transparent glass.

Deck Structure and Materials
The floating of the sauna is provided by cork composite, a lightweight, sustainable material with excellent buoyancy properties. The upper layer of the deck is finished with thermally treated larch in a terracotta hue, lending the structure a natural aesthetic and high resistance to moisture. This material choice not only ensures the durability of the construction but also enhances its ecological footprint.

Functional Zones
The exterior deck locates of the following features:
Water entry point and an outdoor shower for convenient access to the fjord.
Hydroponic garden for growing greens, creating a self-sustained eco-environment directly on board.
Bar counter with a mini-fridge and a drinking tap with water filtered through the system that is located on the -1st floor.
Lounge area with soft comfortable sofas and armchairs for relaxation.

Interior and Observation Areas
Inside the sauna, there are two changing rooms, two shower rooms, two toilets, and a captain’s bridge with control panel. The sauna, equipped with an electric stove, accommodates up to six people. Through the transparent zones of the glass shell, stunning views of both the surrounding landscape and the underwater world of the fjord are revealed. The project’s unique feature is the glowing spheres attached to adjustable cables, serving as ballast to regulate buoyancy. As these spheres descend into the water, they emit light that shifts from warm ochre tones to cooler shades of blue and violet. Visitors can observe this mesmerizing process directly from the sauna, enhancing the visual and emotional experience.

Ecological Technologies and Systems
The project is built entirely on eco-friendly and sustainable technologies:
Solar panels, installed on the sauna’s dome, provide energy for all the structure’s needs.
A hydroponic system, located on the deck, creates a closed-loop ecosystem for growing greens.

Water filtration systems:
A black water filter (under the toilets) and a grey water filter (under the showers and sinks) ensure a closed-loop purification system.
Additional fjord water filters serve dual function: one filters the water to make it potable, while the other cleans the fjord from pollutants and returns the purified water back to the natural environment, helping minimize impact and restore the ecosystem.

Movement and Balance Technology
For movement within the fjord, the sauna uses an environmentally friendly electric motor powered by hydrogen fuel cells, which minimizes harmful emissions. The engine is located in the technical section, alongside the water purification system. The buoyancy and stability of the structure are balanced by the glowing spheres, which can be adjusted in length via cables, allowing for flexible buoyancy depending on the current conditions.

Honourable Mention

Fjords Underwater Floating Sauna

Zen Garden Escape

The Zen Garden Escape is intended for visitors experiencing burnout in their professional or personal lives. It provides a space to retreat from daily routines and encourages visitors to explore their personalities, as well as to identify and pursue their true desires and goals. This journey can span weeks or months, and the environment of the complex is specifically crafted to facilitate this transformative process.

In addition to the stunning natural surroundings, the refuge provides a comprehensive retreat experience. This includes occupational therapy activities such as gardening, consuming organic products from the gardens, yoga, aroma spa classes, and art therapy. Qualified specialists visit the escape regularly to conduct psychological training sessions and offer master classes in clowning, plastic arts, carpentry, and local crafts.
The facility includes several distinct areas: workshops, an auditorium with an amphitheater, a gym, a spa area featuring a panoramic hammam, and an open-air phyto-bath. Additionally, there is a restaurant with an open kitchen and a comfortable lounge that offers stunning water views.

The central building features a natural Norwegian meadow as its roof, which is intersected by two open staircases that provide access from the pier to the steep slope. Green roofs also cover the staff accommodation block and the elevator shaft. One of the staircases leads to a symbolic observatory — a rotating platform divided into sectors, or lodges, and surrounded by stones arranged to align with the zodiac constellations.

The roof of the building functions both as a viewing platform on a raised cantilevered ledge and as a space for growing agricultural crops. This area is the beginning of a vegetable garden, which guests tend together. Additionally, there is a greenhouse that can be accessed from the outside or by climbing up directly from the living room and kitchen. Along the dark rear contour of the building, there are storage rooms for the harvest, as well as utility and technical rooms.
Higher up the relief, there is a multifunctional area that includes a summer terrace, a kitchen for seasonal harvesting of agricultural products, a barbecue area, and a utility block for garden tools and supplies. The site is framed by a shared wooden canopy.

Guests are accommodated in individual autonomous cabins, each equipped with all the essentials: a bathroom with a shower, a mini-kitchen, a spacious double bed, and storage furniture. The cabins are thoughtfully scattered across the terrain, resembling natural stones. Each one features its own small guest garden.

Ecology, Economy, and Safety

The main building faces south and has no northern façade, allowing the complex to collect and store more solar heat.
Local wood and stone will be utilized as finishing materials, along with energy-efficient glazing. Solar panels are set to be installed on the sloping roofs of the cabins. A hydro turbine will be placed on the nearest mountain river, and geothermal pumps will be used to supply energy to the complex. To enhance energy conservation and savings, thermal recovery systems for air and water, as well as super-insulation, will be implemented.
The design area is carefully examined for rare plant species, which are transplanted if necessary. Guest houses (cabins) are constructed on a natural stone base without deep foundations.
Rainwater is collected for irrigation, and domestic wastewater is divided into gray and black water. Gray water is filtered and reused for non-potable purposes. The contents of septic tanks are disinfected and broken down by anaerobic bacteria, and they are later utilized as fertilizer. Additionally, organic kitchen waste is processed in composters.

Most of the plant food is grown in the escape’s garden or foraged from the wild. Fish is caught on-site, and animal products come from nearby farms. Drinking water is sourced from local springs and mountain streams.
Physically challenged people can comfortably move around the complex on ramps and use the elevator.

Drifting Iceberg Sauna

The sauna is an independent floating craft that can drift along the fjord, influenced by currents and wind. It can also be propelled using an electric motor.
This cube-shaped sauna is partially submerged in the water and surrounded by a deck terrace. It can accommodate up to six people and features a steam room, toilet, showers, and a recreation area with a mini-kitchen. For safe swimming, an "ice hole" is cut into the deck.
From the window in the steam room, guests can enjoy views of both the landscape above the water and the underwater scenery.
The watercraft’s movement can be controlled by a pilot, who has a dedicated space located above the guest rooms, under the roof.

Eco-Friendly Technologies

- Solar energy: Solar panels are installed on the sloped roof.
- Local wood is used in the interior decoration.
- Energy-efficient glazing, super insulation, hot water recovery, and wastewater collection and filtration systems are implemented.

Honourable Mention

Fjords Hidden Garden Escape

The quintessentially Finnish way to sauna can only be experienced out at sea in the archipelago or by a lake in the lakelands. Here outside the power grid and away from modern convenience Finns build their saunas to connect with nature and live a simpler way of life between sauna sessions.

Getting to these places is often quite a journey, heating a sauna takes time and peak sauna hours are early in the morning or late at night. It is therefore understood that a full-on sauna session involves an overnight stay, a meal or two and some participation from all guests. To carry out this mission, typically, a wood-heated cabin with a couple beds and a kitchenette, a shed for cutting and storing wood, a privy, a changing room, shower and a couple in- and outdoor hangout spots are built alongside the sauna. These buildings and spaces, the cooperation between guests when preparing sauna and food, and last but not least, the sauna session in itself is all part of the sauna by the sea experience. This way of sauna is more than an activity, it’s a temporary lifestyle shaping around the activity.

ØYA is a new take on this sauna excursion where all the aforementioned buildings and activities have been merged under one roof as a floating island in Nærøyfjord, Norway. The proposal takes sauna both on top of and under the sea to facilitate new ways of experiencing this UNESCO world heritage site.

Fjords Underwater Floating Sauna

Based on the concept from ancient Greek philosophy, viewing humans as microcosms and considering them as miniature versions of the universe, a new space is created within
Scandinavia, compressing Scandinavia within Scandinavia. This design aims to allow users
to experience the complete essence of Scandinavia within the safety of a sauna, free
from any potential hazards.

Fjords Underwater Floating Sauna

The aim of the project was to create a therapeutic facility addressed to people who are overstimulated and those looking for comfort and peace of mind, where the project will be a link between the user and nature. The topic responds to the problem of deteriorating mental and physical condition of people living in cities resulting from the increasing technology and its rapid development. The idea of the project uses the local Norwegian philosophy of Frilustliv - which encourages spending time outdoors and activities related to it - and the way of life of monks calling for a return to mundane activities surrounded by nature and calming the thoughts.

The key goal was to treat the existing area with respect for the surrounding nature. Therefore, the design space has been minimally arranged - the existing access road has been extended, and the parking lot and port are intended to improve communication in the area and movement within Naerofjord. The building itself, with its characteristic geometric form, is intended to contrast with the surroundings - both through its shape and colors. In turn, the partial hiding of the building's shape in the topography is intended to give the impression that the building was protruding from the slope, becoming integrated with the terrain and hidden from the outside world.

The building has 3 usable floors with a green usable roof. The facility was designed for 12 guests and 8 employees. In front of the entrance to the building, a recreational zone was designed with a utility port enabling water activities, a water reservoir, a fireplace and seats located at the slope. At the ground floor level, the building was divided into two wings. The west wing contains a workshop area where users can participate in the process of growing plants and herbs. Above the western wing there is a common area for preparing and eating meals, in the overhead part there are guest rooms providing the most attractive view of the surrounding fjord, and above the eastern wing there is a wellness zone and employee rooms in the interior of the buildings. The second floor is mainly a utility roof, which can be accessed from inside the building and from the upper level of the landscape road running around the area project, connecting the inside with the outside.

The design is intended to provide a shelter in the surrounding landscape, offering space for silence and contemplation, and containing activities that assist in the therapy process. The project responds to a given problem by creating a space for integration and improvement of a person's mental state.

Fjords Hidden Garden Escape

Huddle, is located along the sloped bank of the Nærøyfjord UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Scandinavian fjords. It is designed as a remote retreat for trauma patients. The project’s primary focus is to sustainably design a safe space and ultimately keep the peace of mind of the patient at the forefront of the design. This is primarily acheived through the planning of the site. Designed to reflect traditional building typologies of Norway, the structure consists of a longhouse which has been wrapped to contain an internal courtyard, to not only create a sense of a safe communal space for all visitors, but to also reflect on the traditional wooden longhouses of the Nordic.

Fjords Hidden Garden Escape

The project "The Hygge Path" is a unique escape and wellness retreat, designed for young adults and adults struggling with loneliness, nestled along the stunning Norwegian fjord near Bakka. This specific group has been chosen in response to the growing sense of isolation and the challenges faced in forming meaningful relationships, as highlighted in social studies and reports like Humanitære behov i Norge: Status 2022. In this peaceful setting, the natural therapeutic effects of nature and water come together to create a sanctuary where solitude is met with comfort, warmth, and genuine connection.

Central to the philosophy of this project is the concept of hygge, a Danish and Norwegian word embodying a deep sense of warmth, comfort, and well-being. Hygge represents those moments when one feels at peace and embraced by one’s surroundings.’ ’The Hygge Path” represents both a literal path within the retreat grounds and a metaphorical journey for each guest and their inner self — moving from loneliness to a place of community, belonging and feeling of comfort and warmth. This concept extends through the land design, the architectural choices, and the social approach of the center, fostering an environment that embodies simplicity, presence and comfort.

Fjords Hidden Garden Escape

Our revitalization project aims to restore nature across the quarry with minimal new construction, focusing on adaptive reuse of existing structures like the Old Mills, which will become a vegetable garden supplying the new Concert Hall. Paths and a bridge will connect key points, including a pavilion overlooking the mountains, and educational trails will highlight the quarry's history, flora, and fauna. A 75-year plan will guide restoration, introducing native plants and sustainable systems like ETFE greenhouses, silt-enriched soil, and energy-efficient facilities to transform the quarry into an ecological sanctuary for both visitors and local wildlife.

Quarry Biophilic Pavilion Design

ReGenesis
This project transforms an abandoned quarry from a degraded industrial site into a sanctuary where nature and community thrive together. Rain gardens along natural water banks support biodiversity, while greenhouses nurture indigenous plants for sustainable re-vegetation. In secluded areas, wildlife zones with birdhouses, bat roosts, and conservation spaces offer undisturbed habitats for native species.
Visitors explore the landscape through accessible, eco-friendly paths that wind across the site. An outdoor amphitheatre, blending seamlessly into the quarry’s natural contours, serves as a venue for concerts, while shaded pergolas and green spaces offer areas for relaxation, picnics, and seasonal activities. Elevators in steep areas ensure inclusivity for all.
Guided tours, workshops, and interpretive signage reveal the quarry’s journey from its industrial origins to an ecologically restored space. A history pavilion at the entrance tells this story, while seasonal activities showcase the landscape’s continuous transformation.
Sustainability is central, with solar-powered pavilions, off-grid energy systems, and energy storage discreetly placed beneath ramps. Locally sourced stones and rain gardens complete this regenerative, thoughtfully designed space where nature and people flourish together.

Self-Sustainable Concert Hall with Nature-Based Solutions

The concert hall features an innovative architectural design centered around a durable larch wood waffle structure, encircled by a glass ring facade. The wavy roof, which continues the same larch wood framework, is designed as a walkable surface and incorporates a modular, parametric division of hexagonal permeable panels. These panels form a puzzle-like grid with patches of grass, adding greenery to the roof. On the higher slopes, solar panels, arranged in hexagonal modules and optimized through climatic analysis, are strategically placed to capture solar energy efficiently. Unreachable slopes feature birdhouses, enhancing the design’s ecological contribution.

- Technological Solutions and Energy Generation
In line with self-sustainability, the concert hall integrates energy-generating technologies. High-traffic areas, including spaces around the audience hall, café, and panoramic lounges, are equipped with kinetic paving that generates energy from footsteps. Inside the audience hall, acoustic performance is enhanced by bamboo ceiling panels designed with precise sound reflection angles, allowing optimal sound transmission. With a maximum viewing distance of 30 meters from the farthest point to the stage, the design provides an intimate acoustic experience for audiences.

- Integration with Landscape and Climate-Responsive Design
Located centrally in a quarry near a lake, the hall harmonizes with its natural surroundings, offering panoramic views of the entrance pavilions, landscaped areas, and the quarry itself. The roof seamlessly integrates with the terrain, adapting to different levels, while one wing of the “stingray” design extends from the landscape into the undulating roof geometry. On the opposite side, where the terrain is higher, the roof smoothly transitions between the natural quarry landscape and its own green, walkable surface.

To enhance climate responsiveness, the hall’s glass facade, combined with high thermal inertia paving on the south-southeast side, captures solar heat in winter when the sun is lower, while the angled roof provides natural shading in summer, aiding cooling. Surrounding rain gardens and underground cisterns collect and filter greywater, supplying non-potable water for general use. Bathrooms are positioned to minimize the distance for filtered water distribution, and an additional UV sterilization and mineralization process produces potable water for fountains and restaurant use.
- Building Layout and Capacity
The concert hall spans three main levels with a footprint of 5,000 sq m and a total usable area of 15,000 sq m. It accommodates 1,700 guests and includes four entrances (two main entrances), four elevators, and two outdoor terraces for the café, featuring tables and wooden loungers. The ground level hosts the restaurant, service and logistics areas, and a public panoramic corridor, along with a lower entrance to the audience hall. The first level offers access to the main entrance and the first row of audience balconies, providing a comprehensive view of the main hall. Sixteen private balcony lounges, two large audience balconies, and the main hall complete the concert hall’s interior setup.

This self-sustaining concert hall showcases a commitment to ecological integration, renewable energy, and climate-responsive architecture, creating a harmonious relationship between structure, landscape, and community.

Quarry Biophilic Pavilion

This pavilion concept is designed as an inviting “gateway” to an abandoned quarry, merging organically with the surrounding landscape. Public areas are located on 3 terraced levels, each with unique spaces dedicated to public engagement and environmental integration.The organic forms of the pavilion and urban spaces closely resemble the local flora, creating fluid and flowing areas that serve various purposes.

The pavilion is located at the entrance level of the quarry and is featured by a square with fountains and stone sculptures. Nearby community gardens of edible plants and herbs support biodiversity and provide educational opportunities that promote awareness of local ecosystems.

On the lower level, a rain garden serves water recycling systems and is paired with a tranquil pier for rest. The upper level offers observation decks, an amphitheater, a sensory trail, indoor farms, and a café, creating a dynamic path for visitors to explore.The project includes flexible covered event spaces and an open-air amphitheater adjacent to the ramp, that is perfect for concerts and large gatherings.

Inspired by fluid natural forms, the pavilion's structure is modular, composed of connected cellular units that create clear-cut zones and multiple paths. The pavilion has a structure made of steam-bent wood and 3D-printed walls made from biodegradable materials. Facade is divided into two parts: the upper section utilizes moss cement, while the lower is crafted from quarry stones and includes integrated insect houses for wildlife habitat. The glass roof provides ample natural light, reducing energy demand.

The facade is full of small openings, each one serving a different purpose: glazing, solar panels, and bird nesting spaces. These features allow for climate control inside the building and efficient energy use thanks to sensor tracking.

The pavilion operates off-grid, combining solar, wind, and kinetic paving energy. The design also includes a sustainable rainwater collection system, with the pavilion’s shape creating large funnels to gather water efficiently.

The project provides a natural landscape intended to preserve local flora and fauna. To ensure a peaceful habitat for wildlife, designated zones are situated away from human activity. Green corridors, vertical plant connections, and bat houses are integrated along the steep slopes, while bird nesting areas are positioned in the upper part of the facade, away from noise and disturbance. This approach ensures a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, promoting the idea of preserving wildlife.

Quarry Biophilic Pavilion Design

ReGenesis
This project transforms an abandoned quarry from a degraded industrial site into a sanctuary where nature and community thrive together. Rain gardens along natural water banks support biodiversity, while greenhouses nurture indigenous plants for sustainable re-vegetation. In secluded areas, wildlife zones with birdhouses, bat roosts, and conservation spaces offer undisturbed habitats for native species.
Visitors explore the landscape through accessible, eco-friendly paths that wind across the site. An outdoor amphitheatre, blending seamlessly into the quarry’s natural contours, serves as a venue for concerts, while shaded pergolas and green spaces offer areas for relaxation, picnics, and seasonal activities. Elevators in steep areas ensure inclusivity for all.
Guided tours, workshops, and interpretive signage reveal the quarry’s journey from its industrial origins to an ecologically restored space. A history pavilion at the entrance tells this story, while seasonal activities showcase the landscape’s continuous transformation.
Sustainability is central, with solar-powered pavilions, off-grid energy systems, and energy storage discreetly placed beneath ramps. Locally sourced stones and rain gardens complete this regenerative, thoughtfully designed space where nature and people flourish together.

Self-Sustainable Concert Hall with Nature-Based Solutions

The concert hall features an innovative architectural design centered around a durable larch wood waffle structure, encircled by a glass ring facade. The wavy roof, which continues the same larch wood framework, is designed as a walkable surface and incorporates a modular, parametric division of hexagonal permeable panels. These panels form a puzzle-like grid with patches of grass, adding greenery to the roof. On the higher slopes, solar panels, arranged in hexagonal modules and optimized through climatic analysis, are strategically placed to capture solar energy efficiently. Unreachable slopes feature birdhouses, enhancing the design’s ecological contribution.

- Technological Solutions and Energy Generation
In line with self-sustainability, the concert hall integrates energy-generating technologies. High-traffic areas, including spaces around the audience hall, café, and panoramic lounges, are equipped with kinetic paving that generates energy from footsteps. Inside the audience hall, acoustic performance is enhanced by bamboo ceiling panels designed with precise sound reflection angles, allowing optimal sound transmission. With a maximum viewing distance of 30 meters from the farthest point to the stage, the design provides an intimate acoustic experience for audiences.

- Integration with Landscape and Climate-Responsive Design
Located centrally in a quarry near a lake, the hall harmonizes with its natural surroundings, offering panoramic views of the entrance pavilions, landscaped areas, and the quarry itself. The roof seamlessly integrates with the terrain, adapting to different levels, while one wing of the “stingray” design extends from the landscape into the undulating roof geometry. On the opposite side, where the terrain is higher, the roof smoothly transitions between the natural quarry landscape and its own green, walkable surface.

To enhance climate responsiveness, the hall’s glass facade, combined with high thermal inertia paving on the south-southeast side, captures solar heat in winter when the sun is lower, while the angled roof provides natural shading in summer, aiding cooling. Surrounding rain gardens and underground cisterns collect and filter greywater, supplying non-potable water for general use. Bathrooms are positioned to minimize the distance for filtered water distribution, and an additional UV sterilization and mineralization process produces potable water for fountains and restaurant use.
- Building Layout and Capacity
The concert hall spans three main levels with a footprint of 5,000 sq m and a total usable area of 15,000 sq m. It accommodates 1,700 guests and includes four entrances (two main entrances), four elevators, and two outdoor terraces for the café, featuring tables and wooden loungers. The ground level hosts the restaurant, service and logistics areas, and a public panoramic corridor, along with a lower entrance to the audience hall. The first level offers access to the main entrance and the first row of audience balconies, providing a comprehensive view of the main hall. Sixteen private balcony lounges, two large audience balconies, and the main hall complete the concert hall’s interior setup.

This self-sustaining concert hall showcases a commitment to ecological integration, renewable energy, and climate-responsive architecture, creating a harmonious relationship between structure, landscape, and community.

Quarry Biophilic Pavilion

This pavilion concept is designed as an inviting “gateway” to an abandoned quarry, merging organically with the surrounding landscape. Public areas are located on 3 terraced levels, each with unique spaces dedicated to public engagement and environmental integration.The organic forms of the pavilion and urban spaces closely resemble the local flora, creating fluid and flowing areas that serve various purposes.

The pavilion is located at the entrance level of the quarry and is featured by a square with fountains and stone sculptures. Nearby community gardens of edible plants and herbs support biodiversity and provide educational opportunities that promote awareness of local ecosystems.

On the lower level, a rain garden serves water recycling systems and is paired with a tranquil pier for rest. The upper level offers observation decks, an amphitheater, a sensory trail, indoor farms, and a café, creating a dynamic path for visitors to explore.The project includes flexible covered event spaces and an open-air amphitheater adjacent to the ramp, that is perfect for concerts and large gatherings.

Inspired by fluid natural forms, the pavilion's structure is modular, composed of connected cellular units that create clear-cut zones and multiple paths. The pavilion has a structure made of steam-bent wood and 3D-printed walls made from biodegradable materials. Facade is divided into two parts: the upper section utilizes moss cement, while the lower is crafted from quarry stones and includes integrated insect houses for wildlife habitat. The glass roof provides ample natural light, reducing energy demand.

The facade is full of small openings, each one serving a different purpose: glazing, solar panels, and bird nesting spaces. These features allow for climate control inside the building and efficient energy use thanks to sensor tracking.

The pavilion operates off-grid, combining solar, wind, and kinetic paving energy. The design also includes a sustainable rainwater collection system, with the pavilion’s shape creating large funnels to gather water efficiently.

The project provides a natural landscape intended to preserve local flora and fauna. To ensure a peaceful habitat for wildlife, designated zones are situated away from human activity. Green corridors, vertical plant connections, and bat houses are integrated along the steep slopes, while bird nesting areas are positioned in the upper part of the facade, away from noise and disturbance. This approach ensures a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, promoting the idea of preserving wildlife.

Quarry Regenerative Landscaping Design

A quarry is a unique type of landscape that has been formed as a result of serious anthropogenic impact. Constant mining, driven by economic benefits, leads to an increase in the number of quarries. And with the growing size of cities, quarries are increasingly approaching their borders, which suggests that it would be rational to use these spaces for the needs of the city. In addition, abandoned quarries cause serious damage to the environment and landscape. Therefore, the restoration (reclamation) of these territories will help to reduce their negative impact on the environment.
The formation of public spaces in the territories of abandoned quarries is of significant interest for modern urban planning and landscape design and solves environmental, social, economic, historical and cultural problems.
Based on the analysis of the world experience in the reclamation of abandoned quarries, the main approaches to the formation of public spaces in these territories were identified, depending on the types of quarries and their natural features (former quarries, flooded mining pits, partially flooded quarries and waterless quarries).
Common approaches to the transformation of abandoned quarries have also been identified, which can be traced in all types of quarries.:
1) Ecological restoration plays a key role, including the restoration of vegetation and the creation of natural ecosystems specially adapted to local climatic conditions. This also includes the restoration of the natural landscape and the creation of wetlands that contribute to the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity.
2) The creation of cultural and educational spaces is aimed at using former quarries to create museums, galleries and educational centers dedicated to the history and ecology of this place. These centers become platforms for education and preservation of the cultural heritage of the region.
3) The creation of recreational areas includes the development of parks, hiking trails with an extensive network of paths, as well as special areas for active and quiet recreation, providing opportunities for physical activity and wellness in a natural environment.
4) The integration of architecture into the landscape is an important aspect in which architectural elements are harmoniously combined with the natural environment of the quarry. The use of natural forms and materials of the quarry to create amphitheaters, observation decks and pavilions allows you to preserve the authenticity of this place and create unique spaces for various types of activities.
5) The use of local materials in architecture, the extraction of which was carried out, and the use of steel, which serves as a reference to the industrial past and gives new structures a special authenticity and relevance to the context.
The identified approaches were tested using the example of creating a regenerative landscape design of an abandoned quarry in Inkerman, Crimea.
This is a unique territory with a rich history dating back to the 2nd century BC. At the top of the Monastery Rock are the ruins of the ancient fortress of Kalamita, which served as a port connecting Chersonesos with routes leading from the steppe Crimea. The lake in the quarry was formed in 1968 as a result of a water breakthrough from the nearest reservoir.
Inkerman quarry is an important object of cultural and historical heritage, which can become an example of successful reclamation and integration of industrial areas into a modern urban environment.
Based on the analysis of the existing state of the Inkerman quarry and the surrounding area, a number of problems of the territory can be identified:
1) Abandoned infrastructure, such as mines, tunnels and caves, is not in use, is in an abandoned state and may pose a danger to tourists and local residents.
2) The destruction of monuments. Due to insufficient care and protection, many historical and architectural monuments located near the quarry are being destroyed.
3) The absence of museums and information centers. The lack of infrastructure to promote the history and importance of the quarry among tourists and locals.
4) The absence of urban park areas in the city of Inkerman.
The main idea of the Inkerman Quarry restoration project is to turn an abandoned quarry into a multifunctional public space combining elements of a nature reserve, a cultural center and a recreation area. The project takes into account the unique natural and historical features of the quarry, eliminates the problems of the territory and creates conditions for its safe and rational use.
The functional zoning of the territory includes:
1. The entrance area:
- Information block for visitors
- Security post
- Bathrooms
- Buffet for relaxation and snacks
- Entrance observation deck
2. Recreation area:
- Quiet recreation areas (small amphitheater and gazebos on the water)
- Terraces overlooking the quarry and the lake
- Beach with piers on the water
- Observation decks and observation platforms
3. The area of mass events:
- An area with water elements and stone sculptures
- Amphitheater
- Underground exhibition pavilion
4. Walking areas:
- Pedestrian bridges for moving and inspecting the quarry
- Walking alleys with small architectural forms
- Walking paths for active movement
5. Green areas:
- gardens
6. The historical zone, which includes:
- Preservation of the Kalamita Fortress
- An architectural installation made of steel wire in the form of the lost Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra
- Caves in the rock with a historical museum
- Amphitheater overlooking the quarry
6. Cultural and educational zone:
- Exhibition space for temporary and permanent exhibitions
- Historical and Archaeological Museum
- Research Center for Scientific and Educational Programs
7. Active recreation area:
- Universal sports ground
8. Economic zone:
- Parking for visitors' cars
The design proposal uses architectural forms and materials that blend harmoniously with the environment and historical artifacts of the area, creating a unique space that reflects the spirit of Inkerman. The following materials are used in the architectural solution: stone – local limestone, wood, concrete, steel wire and corten steel, which emphasizes the industrial character of the area and ensures the durability of structures. The facades of the museum building, as well as the open stairwells and elevator shafts, were covered with 3D panels made of recycled plastic, alternating with glass inserts. This facade solution echoes the texture of the surrounding rocks, creating a visual effect when the rock was cut with saws, obtaining a characteristic pattern.
During this study, the main strategies for the transformation of abandoned quarries were identified.
And the Inkerman Quarry restoration project presented to your attention is not only an example of preserving and popularizing the cultural, historical and natural heritage of this place, but also a solution for creating an open public space that meets all the needs of modern society.

Quarry Regenerative Landscaping Design

Galdr (Proto-Germanic) – “incantation” or “song”; a spell or chant, often mystical, sung to create an effect.

Orchestration of Views
The journey to the concert hall at Hope Quarry is a careful orchestration of views, designed to unfold the landscape step by step, inviting visitors to engage with both land and architecture. Upon arrival, the quarry remains hidden—a deliberate choice that builds anticipation, embodying the inherent hidden landscape of a quarry concealed until the final approach. As visitors enter, they are met first with never ending vistas of the English countryside, framed in contrast to the enclosure of the building itself. The focus is on the horizon.
Continuing inward, the floor slopes subtly downward, gradually shifting their perspective. At the descent’s end, the quarry walls finally reveal themselves, tiered and monumental. Allowing the incredible excavation into the view. Finally at the end of the slope, visitors experience both the rural landscape and the carved depths of the quarry. The journey concludes as they turn to enter the theater, carrying with them this complete impression of land and form.

Embedded in the Stone
Inside, the concert hall is carved directly into the stone, blending spatial design with the primal atmosphere of old English storytelling traditions. Lighting is restrained, with lamps placed to evoke torchlight, creating a shadowed intimacy that calls to mind ancient gatherings. Behind the stage, the exposed limestone wall stands as both unique backdrop. The lateral walls, with subtle curves, enhance the reverberation and enrich the sound. This hall acts as a convergence of place, memory, and sensory experience, literally placed in the stone itself.

Landscape Intervention
A layer of topsoil reintroduces a living surface to select areas on the stone, nurturing the slow reestablishment of native grasses and plants. Minimal interventions allow the quarry’s character to remain largely untouched. Up above, new trees, including ash, are planted with intent to shape the view of the landscape—these species pay homage to the origins of musical instruments and to the structure of the concert hall.

Quarry Concert Hall Design

ReGenesis
This project transforms an abandoned quarry from a degraded industrial site into a sanctuary where nature and community thrive together. Rain gardens along natural water banks support biodiversity, while greenhouses nurture indigenous plants for sustainable re-vegetation. In secluded areas, wildlife zones with birdhouses, bat roosts, and conservation spaces offer undisturbed habitats for native species.
Visitors explore the landscape through accessible, eco-friendly paths that wind across the site. An outdoor amphitheatre, blending seamlessly into the quarry’s natural contours, serves as a venue for concerts, while shaded pergolas and green spaces offer areas for relaxation, picnics, and seasonal activities. Elevators in steep areas ensure inclusivity for all.
Guided tours, workshops, and interpretive signage reveal the quarry’s journey from its industrial origins to an ecologically restored space. A history pavilion at the entrance tells this story, while seasonal activities showcase the landscape’s continuous transformation.
Sustainability is central, with solar-powered pavilions, off-grid energy systems, and energy storage discreetly placed beneath ramps. Locally sourced stones and rain gardens complete this regenerative, thoughtfully designed space where nature and people flourish together.

Self-Sustainable Concert Hall with Nature-Based Solutions

The concert hall features an innovative architectural design centered around a durable larch wood waffle structure, encircled by a glass ring facade. The wavy roof, which continues the same larch wood framework, is designed as a walkable surface and incorporates a modular, parametric division of hexagonal permeable panels. These panels form a puzzle-like grid with patches of grass, adding greenery to the roof. On the higher slopes, solar panels, arranged in hexagonal modules and optimized through climatic analysis, are strategically placed to capture solar energy efficiently. Unreachable slopes feature birdhouses, enhancing the design’s ecological contribution.

- Technological Solutions and Energy Generation
In line with self-sustainability, the concert hall integrates energy-generating technologies. High-traffic areas, including spaces around the audience hall, café, and panoramic lounges, are equipped with kinetic paving that generates energy from footsteps. Inside the audience hall, acoustic performance is enhanced by bamboo ceiling panels designed with precise sound reflection angles, allowing optimal sound transmission. With a maximum viewing distance of 30 meters from the farthest point to the stage, the design provides an intimate acoustic experience for audiences.

- Integration with Landscape and Climate-Responsive Design
Located centrally in a quarry near a lake, the hall harmonizes with its natural surroundings, offering panoramic views of the entrance pavilions, landscaped areas, and the quarry itself. The roof seamlessly integrates with the terrain, adapting to different levels, while one wing of the “stingray” design extends from the landscape into the undulating roof geometry. On the opposite side, where the terrain is higher, the roof smoothly transitions between the natural quarry landscape and its own green, walkable surface.

To enhance climate responsiveness, the hall’s glass facade, combined with high thermal inertia paving on the south-southeast side, captures solar heat in winter when the sun is lower, while the angled roof provides natural shading in summer, aiding cooling. Surrounding rain gardens and underground cisterns collect and filter greywater, supplying non-potable water for general use. Bathrooms are positioned to minimize the distance for filtered water distribution, and an additional UV sterilization and mineralization process produces potable water for fountains and restaurant use.
- Building Layout and Capacity
The concert hall spans three main levels with a footprint of 5,000 sq m and a total usable area of 15,000 sq m. It accommodates 1,700 guests and includes four entrances (two main entrances), four elevators, and two outdoor terraces for the café, featuring tables and wooden loungers. The ground level hosts the restaurant, service and logistics areas, and a public panoramic corridor, along with a lower entrance to the audience hall. The first level offers access to the main entrance and the first row of audience balconies, providing a comprehensive view of the main hall. Sixteen private balcony lounges, two large audience balconies, and the main hall complete the concert hall’s interior setup.

This self-sustaining concert hall showcases a commitment to ecological integration, renewable energy, and climate-responsive architecture, creating a harmonious relationship between structure, landscape, and community.

Quarry Biophilic Pavilion

This pavilion concept is designed as an inviting “gateway” to an abandoned quarry, merging organically with the surrounding landscape. Public areas are located on 3 terraced levels, each with unique spaces dedicated to public engagement and environmental integration.The organic forms of the pavilion and urban spaces closely resemble the local flora, creating fluid and flowing areas that serve various purposes.

The pavilion is located at the entrance level of the quarry and is featured by a square with fountains and stone sculptures. Nearby community gardens of edible plants and herbs support biodiversity and provide educational opportunities that promote awareness of local ecosystems.

On the lower level, a rain garden serves water recycling systems and is paired with a tranquil pier for rest. The upper level offers observation decks, an amphitheater, a sensory trail, indoor farms, and a café, creating a dynamic path for visitors to explore.The project includes flexible covered event spaces and an open-air amphitheater adjacent to the ramp, that is perfect for concerts and large gatherings.

Inspired by fluid natural forms, the pavilion's structure is modular, composed of connected cellular units that create clear-cut zones and multiple paths. The pavilion has a structure made of steam-bent wood and 3D-printed walls made from biodegradable materials. Facade is divided into two parts: the upper section utilizes moss cement, while the lower is crafted from quarry stones and includes integrated insect houses for wildlife habitat. The glass roof provides ample natural light, reducing energy demand.

The facade is full of small openings, each one serving a different purpose: glazing, solar panels, and bird nesting spaces. These features allow for climate control inside the building and efficient energy use thanks to sensor tracking.

The pavilion operates off-grid, combining solar, wind, and kinetic paving energy. The design also includes a sustainable rainwater collection system, with the pavilion’s shape creating large funnels to gather water efficiently.

The project provides a natural landscape intended to preserve local flora and fauna. To ensure a peaceful habitat for wildlife, designated zones are situated away from human activity. Green corridors, vertical plant connections, and bat houses are integrated along the steep slopes, while bird nesting areas are positioned in the upper part of the facade, away from noise and disturbance. This approach ensures a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, promoting the idea of preserving wildlife.

Quarry Concert Hall Design

Our revitalization project aims to restore nature across the quarry with minimal new construction, focusing on adaptive reuse of existing structures like the Old Mills, which will become a vegetable garden supplying the new Concert Hall. Paths and a bridge will connect key points, including a pavilion overlooking the mountains, and educational trails will highlight the quarry's history, flora, and fauna. A 75-year plan will guide restoration, introducing native plants and sustainable systems like ETFE greenhouses, silt-enriched soil, and energy-efficient facilities to transform the quarry into an ecological sanctuary for both visitors and local wildlife.

Quarry Concert Hall Design

The Town Hall as a Catalyst
We see the development of a Town Hall in the beautiful wetlands of Empordà as the first initial step towards the growth of a thriving Eco-village. The town hall would work as the initial catalyst towards future development on the site, and act as a hub for communal interaction, bridging the gap between the residents, nature enthusiasts, and nature itself. This central gathering space aims to foster a craft hands-on approach, learning and sharing ideas – fostering a sense of belonging.

Placement on the site
The town hall building, situated in the heart of the wetlands, is seamlessly integrated with the surrounding environment, reflecting a commitment to ecological balance. The wetlands host a rich variety of flora, including tall reeds, and aquatic grasses. The whole structure is built upon pillars to respect and maintain the ground conditions. The town hall is carefully placed towards the existing tree formation, that acts as a natural spine. Fauna in the area includes a diverse array of birds, horses, and other wildlife. The town hall’s design complements this biodiverse habitat, with elevated walkways and eco-friendly materials that minimize disruption to the delicate ecosystem, to disturb the existing wildlife as little as possible.

Growing from the landscape
With this careful placement on site, the structure can grow organically in several stages. While the back of the structure hugs the forest, its south facade inhabits large openings towards the beautiful view of the wetland while blurring the border between inside and outside. As the initial workshop forms, it becomes the foundation for extensions and additions. Each new space or functionality will grow from the community’s needs and desires reflecting the evolving nature of the community itself. The built structure evolves following a few structural regulations, such as an angular grid, post-beam construction, and coherent roof structure. This logic is set at the beginning of its establishment to harmonize with the sensitive environment, while still allowing for the potential growth of a future eco-village in connection to the town hall structure.

Building a community
The center heart of the town hall is the workshop space, a space where simple constructions and furniture take shape through collective efforts. This workshop serves not only as a physical space for crafting but also as a metaphorical cornerstone for the entire structure. Locals from the growing village actively participate in building their community hall, instilling a sense of pride and ownership in every nail hammered and every plank joined.

Visitors and inhabitants
As the seasons change, the activities in the town hall change. In summer, the open deck spaces serve multiple purposes. The workshop can expand, and new pavilions for enjoying coffee in the shade can be constructed within a matter of days allowing for external visitors. In the off-season, the local community has the opportunity to utilize the workshops and common areas for gatherings, including cinema nights, auditorium events, and peaceful dining in a hall that overlooks the serene wetland just outside.

Empordà Agora - Eco Village Town Hall Competition

As part of the "Sensory Horizons" concept and the sustainable eco-village in the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà wetlands, the entire cycle of the relationship between people, architecture and nature is designed to achieve harmony and unity with the environment.
The concept of the sustainable eco-village "Sensory Horizons" in the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà wetland is based on the reflection of the five human senses in their environment. The main idea of the project is to create a harmonious combination of unique landscapes, sounds of nature, tastes of local food, the possibility of interacting with nature and the smells of the sea breeze. Here are the main elements of the concept:
Eye Contact:
The residential modules will have large panoramic windows aimed at the beautiful landscapes of Aiguamolls de l'Empordà. This will allow residents to enjoy the views of the surrounding nature right from their homes.
2
Sound Impact:
The visitor center and public spaces are designed in such a way as to provide an opportunity to listen to and enjoy the life of nature, plants and birds. This can include the sounds of birdsong, the rustle of vegetation, and the sounds of the surf.
Taste:
A community garden has been created in the village, where residents will be able to grow their own local products. This promotes access to fresh and organic products, as well as strengthens the bond between people.
Touch:
Terraces and public spaces provide an opportunity to interact with nature. Residents will be able to feel the touch of natural elements such as trees, flowers and grass, as well as feel the pleasant textures and materials used in the architecture and design.
Smell:
The sea breeze, characteristic of the region, is embodied in the concept through the use of natural and environmentally friendly materials that retain their natural aromas. In addition, special areas with aromatic plants have been developed in the village, which will create a pleasant atmosphere.
Ecology:
• Improving green infrastructure: creating new green areas and restoring ecosystems to improve biodiversity and conserve natural resources.
• Developing sustainable agricultural practices and transitioning to organic and local food production.
• Implementing innovative waste management and energy efficiency systems to reduce environmental impact.Heritage:
Preservation and restoration of the historical and cultural heritage of the region.
People:
• Creating a comfortable and healthy living space using environmentally friendly materials and energy-saving technologies.
• Providing access to nature and opportunities to interact with the environment through large panoramic windows, terraces and communal gardens.
• Supporting educational programs and initiatives aimed at imparting knowledge about environmental sustainability and local heritage.
The village consists of 20 houses with a mixture of house types that are comfortably suitable for different family sizes and living conditions.
In the central part of the village there is a public gathering area for outdoor use and a covered building for public use, with a communal kitchen, living room, gym. This place is created for social gatherings and quiet reflection. It is a place where people from different backgrounds and perspectives feel welcome and safe, where every group has a seat at the decision-making table, and where prosperity is shared. Sustainable communities prioritize building community according to common rules and a common way of life. By working together toward a common goal, members can create a meaningful community that values resilience and social connections.
including, but not limited to, housing, resources, cultural, political, economic, etc., while at the same time allowing it to remain within modern society and be connected to it.
Architecture is functional, locally managed, and responsive to local conditions using natural resources suitable for a given rural area.
Community vegetable garden with the "Margalló" method:
The main unifying factor of the village will be a community garden, where residents will be able to apply the "Margalló" method, sustainable farming designed to preserve and restore natural ecosystems. This method includes the use of traditional knowledge and skills of local farmers, as well as the principles of agroecology and permaculture.

Empordà Polis - Self-Sustaining Eco Village Competition

English Title: tempo-
Spanish Title: todo pasa

Life in this landscape has a tempo. The sun shines and sets, then the stars and the moon begin to glow. Seasons change and the air gets warm or cold. And when the rain falls, the water rises and alters its flow.

Life in this landscape is temporary. The trees shed their leaves, and on the ground they decompose. But when spring comes, new flowers bloom and new branches begin to grow. The fish lay their eggs along the riverbanks while the birds take snips of wildgrass to build their nest. The more than human world has a critical role in this great harvest.

A man’s life has a faster tempo, yet still temporary. His sense of time is distinct from the natural world—driven by the speed of cars, the internet, and machines that fulfill his wants and needs. Everything comes instantly, yet the consequences of this faster tempo are far from temporary.

This project aims to create a sense of place and community by syncing man’s tempo with that of the more than human world. By utilizing materials with temporal qualities to construct the village’s architecture, the project reflects the ever-changing landscape it inhabits. While time can be seen as a segmenting agent, it ultimately imbues life into the village.

Empordà Domus - Floating Eco House Competition

According to Icelandic legend, three trolls lived on Reynisfjara beach, which only came out of their caves at night. One time, they came out at dawn, and the sunlight turned them into rocks - today called Reynisdrangar.
I came up with a continuation of the legend. Excluding the above-mentioned trolls, there was also a troll that was different from them. Each day, under the cover of night he was going out to the black beach to admire the nature. One night elves needed his help with moving the rocks. Working for so long made him forget time, thus sunlight turned him into a rock spire.
This whole story and the special place of the beach became a contribution to my project. The troll's admiration of the Icelandic nature, as well as the form of volcanic rock spires, prompted me to give the designed object the shape of an ascending spiral. Thanks to the the external ramp, both sighted and visually-impaired people will be able to experience the surroundings with all their senses. Walking on the ramp, will allow for the opportunity of landscape admiration with a 360-degree view, while smelling the Ocean and feeling the power of the wind, hearing the sound of waves or singing puffins. A spiral ramp, tapering upward, leads to the top, where there is not only a recess sheltered from the wind and noise but also a skylight. Standing there, a blind person can listen to the sounds of Iceland, while sighted people can focus on the sky.
In the aforementioned recess, a skylight was designed through which light reaches the lowest floor. Such a shaft of light is a landmark in the facility for people with a sense of light. A tube under the skylight was designed as the core-construction of the entire facility.
A reception area, exhibition space and seating areas were designed on the ground floor level.
An interior ramp from the ground floor level can be used to access the mezzanine level, where the café and dining areas are located, from where an unobstructed Ocean view can be seen.
The internal ramp also provides access to the SPA area. In the central place, an internal pool was designed, located just below the skylight. Stepping on the floor with bare feet, guests will feel the cold pebbles - as if they were walking on a black beach.
The leisure area has been illuminated with daylight through a designed depression in the ground. Thanks to this, people with a sense of light are guided through the facility thanks to the interaction of light and architecture. Next to the relaxation area, taps with glacier drinking water were designed. SPA level is connected with the geothermal outdoor pools and the stone garden – a reference to the legend.
In conclusion, the entire facility was designed on the basis of external and internal ramps, to eliminate potential accidents. Additionally, the external spiral path to the facility will provide a sensory experience for hearing, smell and touch.

Honourable Mention

Volcanic Visitor Centre Iceland Competition

In order to present different guiding effects in different node, the main body of the building should be sunk and attached to the same soil layer, which could reduce the interference to the environment at a long distance and preserve the integrity of the volcanic landscape.
Besides, the height of the different building block is adjusted according to their function and scale, so that they are visible enough to be guided for visitors when they approaching. The interior of the building offers a continuous view of the sea and a unique view of the volcanic landscape.
It's a quiet trip

Honourable Mention

Volcanic Visitor Centre Iceland Competition

F L O E T O N I Đ U R

Reynisfjara Beach delights us with raw and natural beauty. The project aimed to fit into the landscape by adjusting to the contour lines of Reynisfjara’s map. To accomplish this idea, we got the building close to the rock. The path becomes the main way of the project's expression. It starts with the car park, then splits in three directions. The first one leads through the building's interior. Then it allows going outside again. The second one bypasses the interior and leads us in front of the facade. The third is a smooth passage above the building because the building’s roof transforms into a viewpoint. All three paths cross behind the building, and because of that, we can continue our journey to the highlight, which is Reynisfjara Beach.
The building smoothly comes out of the basalt path. It is a stopover along the road. The building was designed to be a continuation of the path, to go along the horizon. Glass facade provides constant contact with nature. The material, which dominates the project, is local basalt. The shape of the building refers to Reynisfjara’s landscape. The building is based on rock, which parts are also inside. Layer benches were carved in rock to create space for tourists to sit and enjoy the ocean view with a cup of coffee. The rock is a quote of the natural landscape inside the building.
The idea of partially digging the building into the ground refers to traditional Icelandic architecture. Houses in Iceland were dug into the ground for ages. It ensured better thermal insulation and less building materials.
The network of paths in front of the building creates the impression of drifting floes on the ocean. Because of that, the word floe was used in the title. The Icelandic word NIĐUR means noise or sound. It leads us to the ocean. We can hear the ocean subtly at the beginning of the path, but the sound gradually increases while walking. Finally, it becomes very loud. Our senses are more and more stimulated while wandering along the path. While approaching the ocean, we can feel the growing strength of the wind and salty drops of water.
There are grooves on the surface of the path and the floor inside. They go along with the project. It is a system that helps blind people to move around. A blind person can put the end of a white cane in the groove to be subtly led through the building. Inside the groove, some hallows inform about forthcoming zones. The floor is subtly angled, so the visitor gradually goes up along the building. The swimming pool area is placed on flattening to ensure safety.
„Floe in NIĐUR” is strongly related to nature. Reynisfjara Beach became the main inspiration and the source of the idea. The building provides shelter and fulfils necessary functions, but does not compete with the uniqueness of this place.

Honourable Mention

Volcanic Visitor Centre Iceland Competition

The Volcanic Visitor Centre is an innovative architectural project that aims to provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors with visual impairments. The building is designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape while also offering a range of sensory experiences for visitors.

The building's design is characterised by a series of tactile and auditory elements that enable visitors with visual impairments to explore and engage with the space. The exterior of the building features a textured facade made of black rock, providing visitors with a tactile experience as they approach the building. Roads in the site have an additional navigation path for the visually impaired that continues inside the building.

The Visitor Centre includes a seated reception area with information desk, a cafe, an exhibition area, a viewing area and a small geothermal heated plunge pool.

To provide an immersive experience and fully engage visually impaired people, Visitor Centre uses a range of technological solutions. With the help of a special ring equipped with the RFID tag, haptic feedback and connection to an audio headset, people could receive guidance through the building rooms and exhibition area.

The exhibition features three-dimensional layouts of the area around the Visitor Centre so that visually impaired people can feel the stunning landscapes of Reynisfjara Beach through sensory perception. The ring recognises the location of a person’s hand and gives audio information about the touching object. The ring uses commonly spread technologies, easy for disinfection and overall is economically viable.

The building’s interior is also equipped with a range of inclusive design solutions such as smell guidance, floor navigation, touch gallery and light ways. The building's design is intended to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for visitors, ensuring efficient circulation and minimising a labyrinthine effect.

The Volcanic Visitor Center for visually impaired people in Iceland is an architectural project that demonstrates the potential of design to create inclusive and accessible spaces that engage the senses and inspire visitors.

Volcanic Visitor Centre Iceland Competition

The Black Sand Beach has a very unusual atmosphere. Sharp rocks, black sand, large waves and basalt columns give the place a primitive, ascetic and mysterious spirit. Such a cold atmosphere scares and attracts tourists at the same time. Only in such places can a person feel like a primitive man who was left alone with nature. This is the main feeling that the project wants to convey to tourists.
The rocky walls and warm light in the interior create the atmosphere of a cave house, and the black polished metal embodies the future evolution of mankind. Panoramic glazing and transparent pylons erase the boundary between the indoor and outdoor environment. This allows you to combine the interior with nature, to give visitors a complete immersion in the environment. Smooth metal and embossed walls give a tactile connection to the visually impaired, which helps them feel the space. There are also ledges on the floor for them, which facilitate orientation and movement in the center. Tactile plaques with relief drawings are located around the pavilion. This makes it possible for the blind to imagine the surrounding natural landscapes and the image of the pavilion. Therefore, the image of the center has a simple form.
Iceland is known not only for its unique nature, but also for amazing animals. Some such animals are an integral part of Icelandic culture. One of these animals is a whale, the image of which is used in architecture.
The basis of the building layout is a ramp. This creates more convenient movement not only for the blind, but also for people with limited mobility. Also, the ramp facilitates orientation in the building, since all the premises of the center are visible from it. There is a cafe at the head of the building. Since there are strong tides on the beach, it is impossible to place the building close to the water. Therefore, the floor of the cafe is sunk into the ground to visually bring the cafe closer to the water. The remaining rooms are located in the underground floor. There is a museum under the cafe, which continues in a two-light space. The exhibits can also be viewed from above by walking along the ramp. The dining room is located in a separate part. In the dining room there are places for small groups of tourists and for large ones.

Volcanic Visitor Centre Iceland Competition

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