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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Enhance Celestial Engagement in Community Gathering Space

Authors:
Arno Decorte, Nok yi Leung, Chayapa Udombunditkul
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Enhance Celestial Engagement in Community Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements, this community gathering space integrates celestial observation with sustainable practices, fostering engagement and education in a culturally rich environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Innovative use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while maintaining aesthetic harmony with the landscape.
02
The bent A-frame design incorporates natural light strategically to create dynamic interior spaces.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while minimizing the environmental footprint.
04
An integrated astronomical observatory encourages educational engagement with celestial phenomena.
05
The layout promotes fluid circulation between indoor and outdoor areas, fostering community interaction.
The Teotihuacan Passage is an architectural design project located in the culturally rich region of Teotihuacan, Mexico. This project serves as a cultural exchange hub, providing a space for education, artistic expression, and community engagement. By integrating contemporary architectural practices with the historical and geographical context of Teotihuacan, the design emphasizes the importance of heritage while promoting ongoing dialogues about humanity and culture.

The design consists of a series of interconnected spaces that facilitate various functions, including exhibition areas, conference rooms, and a café, all of which contribute to the vibrancy of the experience. The central feature is the Courtyard Observatory, which allows visitors to engage with the celestial elements, echoing the astronomical significance prevalent in ancient Teotihuacan culture. This observatory encourages contemplation and reflection, linking history with current practices of understanding our environment.

Innovative Use of Materials

Teotihuacan Passage employs an intentional material palette harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. The primary material, wood, creates a warm atmosphere that resonates with the theme of life, while expansive glass elements enhance transparency and light within the structure. This use of glass facilitates views of the surrounding environment, promoting a sense of connectivity with nature. Stone accents tie the design back to local geological features and cultural history, reinforcing the architectural narrative. The combination of these materials supports sustainability and local craftsmanship, which serves as a model for future projects in similar contexts.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout of the project is intentionally designed to promote fluid movement between spaces. Public areas are interspersed with semi-private zones to accommodate both social interaction and personal reflection. The garden area surrounding the pavilion enhances the connection with nature, further promoting an outdoor experience that complements the indoor activities. The multiple observation points within the design ensure visitors can engage with the surroundings both visually and experientially, fostering a greater understanding of the historical significance of the site.

The Teotihuacan Passage represents a unique blend of history, culture, and modern architectural principles. Its focus on community, interaction, and environmental integration sets it apart from similar projects. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, explore the detailed presentation of the project. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of how the Teotihuacan Passage stands as a meaningful commitment to cultural preservation and contemporary architectural practice.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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