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Cocoon Structures Featuring Metal Frames and Integrated Greenery for Urban Connectivity

Authors:
Maria Giannaka, Nikos Sokorelis
Cocoon Structures Featuring Metal Frames and Integrated Greenery for Urban Connectivity

Project in-detail

Composed of unique cocoon structures with metal frames and integrated greenery, the design enhances urban connectivity while providing versatile mixed-use spaces in Pafos, Cyprus.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cocoon structures draw inspiration from silk production techniques.
02
Metal frames provide flexibility for office and relaxation spaces.
03
Rainwater collection systems utilize ceramic tubes for efficient use.
04
Climbing plants enhance indoor air quality and aesthetics.
05
Three central cores facilitate movement and encourage social interaction.

The Vertical Cocoons Park is located in Pafos, Cyprus, and seeks to address the ongoing urban changes in the area. By combining elements of nature with urban living, the building aims to create an environment that enhances daily life while focusing on sustainability. The design concept centers on connecting people to their surroundings, reflecting a modern approach to high-rise architecture in coastal city settings.

Spatial Organization

The building utilizes three central cores to facilitate movement throughout its various levels. These cores provide direct access to different areas, allowing for easy navigation. The layout encourages interaction among people using the space. Interconnecting floors offer both workplaces and communal areas, fostering a sense of community in a densely built environment.

Cocoon Design

A distinctive aspect of the building is the dual cocoon forms inspired by silk production. These cocoons feature metal frames that create flexible spaces for offices and relaxation. The solid-surfaced cocoons are used primarily for office functions and conference rooms. This clear differentiation enhances the building’s versatility, allowing various uses while maintaining a coherent design.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a key focus of the Vertical Cocoons Park. The design includes systems for collecting and reusing rainwater, which is transported through ceramic tubes within the structure. On the roof, wind generators harness renewable energy, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, plants are integrated around stairwells, contributing to temperature regulation and the overall comfort of users.

Public Integration

On the ground floor, a Grand lobby acts as a welcoming area that blends with retail spaces, serving as an entry point for both occupants and visitors. This thoughtful layout promotes engagement with the public, reinforcing the connection between the building and its urban surroundings.

Climbing plants along the staircase not only enhance the aesthetic quality but also improve the indoor environment. This connection to nature echoes the project's overall vision of integrating ecological principles into everyday life.

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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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