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RE-CONSTRUCT

INTERNATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITION

RE-CONSTRUCT

RESULT

RE-CONSTRUCT

Editorial reflection

The Reconstruct Design Competition was conceived in response to one of the most pressing challenges of our time — the overwhelming volume of construction and demolition waste generated across the globe. In an era where the building industry continues to expand at an unprecedented pace, the question is no longer whether we can afford to rethink waste, but whether we can afford not to. This competition called upon architects and designers to challenge linear practices and embrace a circular mindset — one where waste is not discarded, but rediscovered as potential.

Under the theme Circular Architecture – Waste as a Resource, participants explored bold and thoughtful strategies for reuse, upcycling, adaptability, and material efficiency. The submissions demonstrated that sustainability is not merely a technical obligation, but a creative opportunity. Through design for disassembly, reduced material consumption, and innovative reinterpretations of reclaimed materials, the projects collectively redefined the aesthetic and environmental possibilities of waste-conscious architecture.

As we announce the results, we celebrate not only the winning entries but the spirit of inquiry and responsibility reflected in every submission. The ideas presented move us closer to a regenerative future — one where architecture becomes an active participant in closing material loops and shaping resilient, future-ready environments. Reconstruct stands as a testament to the power of design to transform global challenges into opportunities for meaningful change.

EXPERTS

Jury Panel

Distinguished architects from around the world evaluate submissions with rigorous professional standards and creative insight.

01  First Place

Winner

NUHUD – From Rubble to Renewal

Ahmed Almadhaani, Ahmad Alchikh, Ahmed Alawadhi & Abdulla Taher

Juror’s Comment:
Highly resolved circular housing system with structural verification and strong urban integration.

Work on:
Further clarify long-term maintenance strategy and phased expansion logistics.

02  Second Place

Remarkable

Material Commonwealth

Heriberto Cruz Cruz, Grace Lawson, Adeniyi Onanuga & Ana Gonzalez

Juror’s Comment:
Systemic circular model integrating reuse, production, and adaptable mixed-use housing.

Work on:
Provide more quantified lifecycle and carbon impact analysis.

03  Third Place

Exceptional

Liberty Salvage

Adam Berton

Juror’s Comment:
Strong infrastructural solution addressing material surplus and community-based upcycling.

Work on:
Enhance architectural distinctiveness and spatial character.

Special Mention

Exceptional

Reimagining the Dam : From Demolition Waste to Circular Architecture

Sayyoung Chang

Juror’s Comment:
Bold infrastructural reuse preventing massive demolition waste while integrating passive cooling.

Work on:
Deepen structural integration detailing and lifecycle carbon accounting.

Honourable Mention

Synthetic Nature: The Plastic Lumber Pavilion

Jaewook Kim

Juror’s Comment:
Strong parametric identity and compelling spatial atmosphere using recycled plastic lumber.

Work on:
Address plastic lifecycle concerns and improve alignment with C&D waste streams.

Honourable Mention

Tasmania Natural Server & Preserving Centre

Hien Long Tran & Vu Hiep Tran

Juror’s Comment:
Direct reuse of demolished walls and components aligns well with the competition brief.

Work on:
Develop structural consistency, insulation, and performance resolution.

Honourable Mention

Polyvert - Cycles Of Innovation - Info Point Pavilion

Irimia Roxana-Andreea & Ionita Mihai Bogdan

Juror’s Comment:
Modular, tool-free system demonstrates clear constructability and adaptability.

Work on:
Strengthen direct engagement with construction & demolition waste materials.

Honourable Mention

Honourable Mention

Honourable Mention

Honourable Mention

Honourable Mention

Honourable Mention

Honourable Mention

Celebrating Potential

Shortlisted Entries

Innovative ideas that stood out among hundreds of entries and earned a place in the final shortlist.

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Opportunities

Discover more competitions

Explore exciting architectural design challenges that push the boundaries of creative thinking and innovation.

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