Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Define a Reflective Space at the Crater

Authors:
Friedhelm Christ, Simon Rieß
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Define a Reflective Space at the Crater

Project in-detail

Characterized by its charred wooden shingles and a sculptural dome of reinforced concrete, the Pavilion seamlessly blends with the lunar-like landscape of Wolfe Creek Crater to create a contemplative space for exploring the essence of humanity.
5 key facts about this project
01
The Pavilion incorporates charred wooden shingles as a nod to traditional fire-resistant building techniques, enhancing durability while creating a striking aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized, providing structural integrity and promoting sustainability through efficient use of renewable materials.
03
The architectural design features a bent A-frame structure that maximizes spatial efficiency while creating unique visual forms within the landscape.
04
Situated within the remote Wolfe Creek Crater, the Pavilion establishes a deep connection between architecture and geology, offering a reflective environment.
05
Flexible exhibition spaces are designed to accommodate various thematic presentations, fostering community engagement and interaction around different aspects of humanity.
The Pavilion of Humanity is an architectural project designed to explore the fundamental essence of human existence through a thoughtfully crafted space. Located at the Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater in Australia, the Pavilion serves as a gathering point where individuals can reflect upon and engage with the complexities of life, culture, and identity. Its design combines functionality with a strong conceptual foundation, creating a unique environment for both visitors and the surrounding natural landscape.

This project represents an introspective journey into what it means to be human, leveraging architecture as a medium for philosophical inquiry and communal engagement. The Pavilion's primary function is to serve as an exhibition and event space that facilitates discussions and interactions around various themes of humanity. It is envisioned as a place where art, science, history, and communication merge, allowing visitors to explore diverse narratives through curated experiences.

Key elements of the Pavilion include its innovative dome structure, which acts as a protective shell and symbolizes the unity of human experiences. This architectural feature creates a central area designed primarily for social gatherings and presentations, fostering a sense of community among visitors. Beneath this main space is a sanctuary area, which offers a quieter environment for reflection and contemplation, designed to promote personal introspection amid a larger narrative about human existence.

The layout of the Pavilion employs a spiral design, guiding visitors through thematic exhibits. This approach reflects the continual evolution of humanity, prompting individuals to engage with various facets of our shared experience as they navigate through the space. Each section is meticulously planned to encourage exploration and interaction, reinforcing the idea that understanding humanity is an ongoing process.

The architectural design thoughtfully considers the site’s natural features, integrating the Pavilion into the surrounding landscape. This is evident in the selection of materials, which likely includes reinforced concrete for durability, glass to enhance natural light and provide visual connections to the environment, and wood to introduce warmth and a tactile aspect to the interiors. Additionally, metal elements may be incorporated for structural integrity and to give the building a contemporary aesthetic.

Unique design approaches employed in the Pavilion include its emphasis on environmental consideration and sustainability. The positioning of the structure respects the geological significance of the crater, ensuring that the architectural footprint complements the landscape without overwhelming it. The use of sustainable building practices is woven throughout the project, intentionally aligning with the ethos of conservation and respect for nature.

The Pavilion of Humanity ultimately seeks to foster a unique visitor experience, one that combines learning, reflection, and social interaction. Through its thematic exhibitions and contemplative spaces, the project promotes a deeper understanding of our shared humanity, encouraging visitors to engage thoughtfully with the content presented. As such, the Pavilion stands not just as an architectural achievement but as a place for dialogue and exploration.

For those interested in diving deeper into this project, I encourage you to explore the presentation of the Pavilion of Humanity, examining architectural plans, sections, designs, and the underlying concepts that continue to inspire this architectural endeavor. This exploration will provide a more comprehensive understanding of this significant project and its contributions to contemporary architecture and human experience.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy