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Butterfly Roof With Cross-Laminated Timber And Straw Bale Insulation In A Natural Setting

Authors:
Marco Marchetti, Giulia Turci
Butterfly Roof With Cross-Laminated Timber And Straw Bale Insulation In A Natural Setting

Project in-detail

A butterfly roof design integrates cross-laminated timber and straw bale insulation to enhance thermal performance, creating a visitor center that seamlessly connects visitors to its natural surroundings while promoting sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof design employs an innovative butterfly shape to enhance rainwater collection and solar energy capture.
02
Straw bale insulation provides superior thermal performance while utilizing eco-friendly materials.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
04
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategically placed openings and airflow pathways.
05
The integration of a playground area within the landscape design fosters community engagement.
The architectural design project is a visitor center situated within a natural landscape, designed to facilitate interaction between visitors and the surrounding environment. This structure functions primarily as an information center, café, and multipurpose event space, supporting a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The building aims to provide visitors with a place of respite and learning while promoting sustainable practices in architecture.

Design Integration with Nature

The project is characterized by its commitment to blending with the natural surroundings. The architectural design emphasizes transparency and openness, allowing natural light to penetrate the interior while providing uninterrupted views of the outdoor landscape. The roof features a butterfly design that effectively collects rainwater and maximizes solar energy capture. This unique approach enhances both the building's functionality and sustainability, making it distinct from typical visitor centers.

The selection of materials further sets this project apart. Elements include wood panels for warmth and aesthetics, oriented strand board (OSB) for structural integrity, straw bales for insulation, and polycarbonate panels for optimized light diffusion. Each material serves a specific purpose, enhancing the building's eco-friendliness and reducing its environmental footprint. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels indicates a commitment to renewable energy, supporting the center's operations while minimizing resource consumption.

Innovative Design Features

Another key aspect of this architectural project is its innovative approach to space utilization. The layout promotes natural ventilation through carefully placed openings, allowing for passive climate control. This reduces dependence on mechanical heating and cooling systems, making the center more efficient and sustainable.

The blending of indoor and outdoor spaces is facilitated by strategically designed terraces and landscaping that encourage visitor engagement with nature. Features such as a children's playground, picnic areas, and adaptable event spaces cater to various user needs, enhancing the center's functionality and community appeal.

Overall, this visitor center exemplifies a well-thought-out architectural design that prioritizes sustainability, community interaction, and connection to nature. For a deeper understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the project.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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