Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Circular Structure With Fabric Screens And Natural Wood Elements For Meditation

Author:
Darran Brennan
Circular Structure With Fabric Screens And Natural Wood Elements For Meditation

Project in-detail

Incorporating an altar for flower essences within a circular timber frame, the pavilion serves as a serene space for meditation, seamlessly blending natural materials and light to enhance the experience of contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a central altar specifically designed for flower essence processing.
02
Features fabric screens that enhance natural light while providing privacy.
03
Employs a circular layout to promote inclusivity and community engagement.
04
Utilizes locally sourced timber to minimize environmental impact.
05
Integrates a central skylight to connect visitors with the sky above.

The Pavilion on the Plains is an architectural project designed as a meditative space located in the Haraki Plains of New Zealand. The structure is characterized by its circular form, which fosters a sense of unity and connection to its natural surroundings. The primary function of the Pavilion is to provide an environment for meditation and reflection, encouraging visitors to engage with both themselves and the landscape around them.

The design integrates various materials, including timber for structural elements, fabric for external panels, steel for support, and glass for features such as the central altar. The combination of these materials serves to enhance durability while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The design emphasizes a seamless interaction with nature. The Pavilion's roof structure features a series of timber purlins that extend from a central ring beam to perimeter columns, creating an airy and open environment. A central skylight is a notable feature, allowing natural light to filter into the space, reinforcing the connection between the interior and the sky above.

The L-shaped panels that define the perimeter of the Pavilion not only provide structural integrity but also serve practical functions by offering shelter from the elements. This design approach ensures a comfortable environment for visitors regardless of weather conditions. The strategic orientation of these panels and their design allows for controlled light entry and maintains privacy when needed.

One unique aspect of this project is the incorporation of an altar for flower essences. This feature supports the Pavilion's role as a space for personal exploration and healing, reflecting an integrated approach to architecture that emphasizes the relationship between built environments and organic processes.

The Pavilion showcases a commitment to sustainability by utilizing locally sourced materials, minimizing impact while enhancing local character. The circular design invites communal interaction, encouraging visitors to come together for both individual and group activities, thus enriching the experience of the Pavilion.

For those interested in exploring the architectural ideas and details behind this project, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the design methodologies employed. Visit the project presentation for a comprehensive look at this thoughtful architectural endeavor.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
Competition organisers

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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