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Bent Wooden Strands Forming a Modular Community Space

Authors:
Yungang Chen, Fang Han, Wangrui Zhang, Siling Zhu
Bent Wooden Strands Forming a Modular Community Space

Project in-detail

The use of bent wooden strands in a modular layout creates a unique communal space that fosters social interaction and leisure, set within the architectural context of Venice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bent wooden strands symbolize social connectivity.
02
Modular arches create dynamic movement throughout the space.
03
Design encourages activities like reading and meditating.
04
Central resting area fosters community engagement.
05
Reflective surfaces enhance light interaction within the environment.

The design draws inspiration from the arched architecture of Venice, sitting within a lively urban area that fosters community interaction. It functions as a multifunctional hub, focusing on performance, relaxation, and social engagement. The concept emphasizes experiential interactions, allowing visitors to engage meaningfully with the environment, free from technology.

Conceptual Framework

At the heart of the design is the theme of interconnectedness. Bent wooden strands represent the complexities of social relationships. They capture the ways individuals intertwine and connect with one another. The design merges historical references with modern spatial strategies, encouraging a deeper understanding of its context and the social dynamics present within it.

User Experience

Human behaviors take center stage in the design. Various seating options and resting areas support standing, sitting, and reclining. The space is intended for activities like reading, meditating, and group discussions. This thoughtful layout invites people to immerse themselves in the surroundings. It creates a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere that promotes leisure and interaction.

Spatial Composition

The form of the structure is sculptural, featuring a modular arch matrix that promotes movement and fluidity. This dynamic approach creates a cohesive environment that resonates with musical rhythms, guiding users toward a central resting area. Repeating arch forms provide structural support while enhancing visual interest. This arrangement reinforces a shared community space.

Materiality and Detail

The project uses bent wooden strands and reflective metal surfaces, which add to the architectural story without dominating the overall design. These materials create a textural contrast that underscores both strength and connection. The careful integration of these elements results in a visually dynamic environment. Light plays across the surfaces, adding depth and enriching the experience within the space.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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