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CNC Grooved Walls Enriched With Glulam and Granite Foundations

Author:
Henry Glennon
CNC Grooved Walls Enriched With Glulam and Granite Foundations

Project in-detail

Incorporating CNC-grooved walls and interlocking CLT panels, this pavilion utilizes glulam and granite to create a multifunctional space harmoniously integrated into its environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pavilion incorporates CNC-grooved walls for enhanced visual depth.
02
Roof structure employs seamed metal for durability and modern aesthetics.
03
Glulam rib-beams support the vaulted ceiling while allowing for open spaces.
04
Interlocking CLT panels create a robust and efficient wall system.
05
Rough-cut granite slabs serve as a unique foundation, connecting structure to site.

The pavilion offers a focus on mass timber construction, situated in an area where utility and beauty come together. Designed for various functions, it reflects contemporary architectural principles through its innovative use of materials and structural design. The concept seeks to unify form and purpose while fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Roof Structure

The roof is made of seamed metal, providing both durability and efficiency. The vaulted design enhances the interior space, allowing for greater volume and light. By combining protection from the elements with an engaging atmosphere, the roof plays a central role in defining the pavilion's character.

Structural System

Inside, the wood planking on the underside of the roof adds warmth and visual texture. Glulam rib-beams support the vaulted form, demonstrating the strength of glued laminated timber. These beams connect to CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber) rib-beams via threaded bolt connections, forming a framework that balances flexibility and stability.

Wall Composition

The walls consist of interlocking CLT panels, which act as a moment frame and load-bearing structure, maximizing the efficiency of materials used. Milled gaps in the glulam beams lock into larger gaps of the CLT panels, enhancing overall strength. Decorative CNC grooves, featuring inset LED tape lights, contribute both to the look of the walls and to the lighting, creating a pleasant ambiance within the space.

Exterior Features

The exterior utilizes conventional wood siding, which complements the design and creates a consistent aesthetic. Rough-cut granite slabs serve as a temporary foundation, anchoring the pavilion to its surroundings. This grounding effect is not only practical but also visually connects the structure to the landscape.

The design of the pavilion emphasizes the use of mass timber, showcasing how material and structural choices can foster engagement and interaction. The careful attention to detail ensures that the building serves its functions while offering a comfortable and inviting space for users.

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

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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

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