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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade in a Mountainous Biodiversity Repository

Authors:
Tyler Harlen, Robinson Yang, Dan Castro
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade in a Mountainous Biodiversity Repository

Project in-detail

With a striking combination of charred wooden shingles and an expansive glass facade, this mountain repository serves as a vital hub for biodiversity preservation and climate research.
5 key facts about this project
01
The repository utilizes charred wooden shingles, a method that enhances durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are incorporated for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The design features a bent A-frame structure that reduces wind load and integrates with the mountainous landscape.
04
An advanced climate control system ensures optimal conditions for the preservation of ecological samples.
05
The building includes a public viewing platform to engage visitors with the surrounding natural environment.
The Aoraki Archive is a notable architectural project situated in the Southern Alps of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand. It serves as a vital environmental repository designed in response to the urgent challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. This architectural design embodies a careful consideration of function and context, acting as a preservation hub for vital ecological data while promoting awareness and community engagement with important environmental issues.

At its core, the Aoraki Archive represents a commitment to safeguarding biodiversity through the secure storage of ecological samples, including preserved seeds. This repository not only aims to protect these materials but also functions as a platform for research and public interaction. The design integrates advanced technology to facilitate the collection and preservation process, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability in its operational methods.

The architectural configuration features a slender, towering structure that harmonizes with the surrounding mountainous landscape. This form underlines the importance of preserving nature while also serving as a visual reminder of ecological resilience. The building's height and structure suggest a relationship to the peaks of the Southern Alps, thereby providing a physical connection to its environment.

Inside the Aoraki Archive, important functional areas are allocated to maximize the project's effectiveness. A significant feature is the viewing platform, which invites visitors to engage with the stunning natural landscape and fosters a deeper connection between the public and the ecological mission of the archive. Furthermore, the data and seed depository is a crucial space, meticulously designed for the secure storage of biodiversity samples, ensuring their protection against potential threats.

In addition to the central archive and depository, the project includes a dedicated laboratory space for ongoing research and analysis. This facility is complemented by an atrium designed for community engagement, where educational programs can take place, enabling visitors to learn about biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts.

The materiality of the Aoraki Archive reflects its environmental surroundings and the principles of sustainable design. The structure primarily utilizes concrete for its core components, providing durability and strength. This is balanced with extensive use of glass, allowing natural light to permeate the building while ensuring a connection with the landscape outside. The incorporation of natural stone further reinforces the relationship between the architecture and its environment, creating a seamless transition from the building to the surrounding terrain.

Unique design approaches are prominent throughout the project. The architecture emphasizes sustainability through the integration of energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials. Features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems illustrate a proactive approach to minimizing the ecological footprint of the building. Additionally, the design's interactive elements engage visitors and create an educational experience, highlighting the crucial role that architecture can play in ecological awareness.

The Aoraki Archive stands as a compelling example of how architectural design can address significant environmental challenges while fostering community involvement. Its thoughtful integration of function, environment, and educational purpose presents a model for future architectural endeavors aimed at conservation and sustainability. To gain a deeper understanding of the Aoraki Archive and its innovative features, readers are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, sections, and designs in detail.
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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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