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Biomimetic Terminal with Engineered Wood and Green Roofs Enhancing Regional Connectivity

Author:
Diego Mauricio Forero Zaidan
Biomimetic Terminal with Engineered Wood and Green Roofs Enhancing Regional Connectivity

Project in-detail

Emphasizing biomimetic design, the terminal integrates engineered wood and green roofs to create an efficient transportation hub that fosters regional connectivity while harmonizing with the local environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Biomimetic form inspired by the shape of an eagle enhances aerodynamics and aesthetics.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels promotes lightweight structure and sustainability.
03
Green roofs integrated throughout the terminal support biodiversity and environmental balance.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while adding a unique visual texture.
05
Vertical zoning optimizes space utilization and improves passenger flow efficiency.

### Project Overview

Pedernales International Airport is situated in Los Chivos, within the Cantón de La Cruz, Costa Rica. The airport is designed to serve as a critical asset for enhancing regional connectivity and supporting local economic development while respecting the area’s natural aesthetics and cultural significance. The architectural approach balances functionality and visual appeal, ensuring operational efficiency within a contextually relevant framework.

### Biomimetic Design and Material Innovation

The design employs biomimetic principles, drawing inspiration from the form of an eagle in flight to establish a clear visual identity. This approach not only enhances the building’s aesthetic but also contributes to its functionality, particularly in thermal comfort within the terminal. The extensive use of sustainable materials underscores a commitment to eco-friendly practices. Elements such as glass in the façade allow natural light to penetrate, creating an inviting atmosphere, while engineered wood offers warmth and sustainability in interior environments. Steel framing ensures structural integrity and the capability for expansive open spaces, complemented by durable concrete foundations designed to withstand high foot traffic.

### Space Optimization and User Experience

The layout of the airport is strategically designed across multiple levels. The main concourse on Level 1 integrates retail and waiting areas, while Level 2 focuses on boarding and security functions. This vertical stratification facilitates efficient passenger flow, minimizing congestion and enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, outdoor spaces with landscaped areas promote social interaction, bridging the airport with the local community. Environmental considerations, including green roofs and carefully planned landscaping, further foster biodiversity and address urban heat mitigation.

The elevations feature a dynamic interplay of lines and forms, with sweeping curved roofs providing functional canopies over entrances. Sections of the building reveal a layering of spaces, allowing for an engaging experience as one moves between internal and external environments, enhancing transparency and connectivity.

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

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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
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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