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Corten Steel and Timber Structure Embracing Nature in a Spiraled Community Hub

Authors:
Alessandra Pederneschi, Davide Ripamonti, Elisabetta Valsecchi
Corten Steel and Timber Structure Embracing Nature in a Spiraled Community Hub
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A half-moon shaped entrance and central tree within a spiraled layout create a unique community hub constructed with locally sourced timber and corten steel, promoting sustainability and connection while serving as an event space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central tree enhances natural ventilation within the building.
02
Spiral design promotes fluid movement and social interaction.
03
Half-moon shaped entrance creates a welcoming gesture to visitors.
04
Materials include local timber and corten steel for resilience and sustainability.
05
Concentric paths connect various areas of the Spirala Ecological Village.

The design draws inspiration from the nautilus shell, utilizing a spiral form that represents life and growth. Located within the Spirala Ecological Village, the structure is arranged to curl around an internal square. At the heart of this square is a tree, which serves as a focal point in the event space. This thoughtful arrangement emphasizes a strong connection to nature while exploring themes of rebirth and community.

Design Concept

The layout promotes a sense of fluidity, creating a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor areas. Paths lead through different sections of the village, with narrower, concentric routes branching out from the center. This organization facilitates movement throughout the site and enhances visual interest, encouraging people to engage with both built and natural elements.

Community Interaction

A central aspect of the design is the importance of social connections. The open spaces allow for interaction among residents, promoting communal experiences. The flow of the structure moves outward from the center, symbolizing personal journeys within the community while building a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Environmental Integration

Natural ventilation strategies play a key role in the design, with open spaces that provide airflow and natural light. The central tree contributes to this system, helping to maintain thermal comfort and reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling. This integration of natural elements creates a sustainable and welcoming indoor environment.

Materiality

Materials chosen for the project include local timber, eucalyptus wood, fir wood, and corten steel. Using local materials helps to decrease environmental impact and ensures a connection to the surrounding context. Corten steel, with its weathered appearance, complements the design's focus on resilience and sustainability.

The entrance features a half-moon shaped square that welcomes visitors and reflects the themes of transformation and community. This design detail fosters an inviting atmosphere while linking the space to a larger narrative of connection and shared experiences.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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Competition organisers

Buildner launches Pavilion Atlas 2026, a global architecture competition inviting designers to create conceptual pavilions that tell the story of a country. Participants are challenged to express cultural, social, environmental, or political identity through spatial storytelling, focusing on ideas rather than symbols or technical constraints. The competition offers a total prize fund of €20,000, with final registration open until September 16, 2026, and winners to be announced on December 8, 2026. All submissions will become part of a global design archive.

Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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