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Corten Steel Canopies and Floating Platforms in a Sustainable Community Space

Authors:
Wael Al-masri, Ahmad Al-jawhary, Mohmad Al-qarout, Yousef Ghaith
Corten Steel Canopies and Floating Platforms in a Sustainable Community Space

Project in-detail

Elevated platforms crafted from Corten steel seamlessly merge with biophilic elements to create a dynamic space dedicated to environmental education and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated platforms optimize views and increase interaction with the surrounding landscape.
02
Corten steel elements create a durable facade that integrates with ecological features.
03
Extensive use of glass panels enhances transparency and natural light throughout the space.
04
Native vegetation is incorporated into the design to support local biodiversity.
05
Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically positioned building forms.
This architectural project presents a thoughtful design that integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings. It is located within a delicate ecological ecosystem and aims to foster a harmonious relationship between built form and nature. The design emphasizes sustainability and user engagement, creating an environment that is not only functional but also conducive to learning about the local biodiversity.

The building is organized into multiple smaller components rather than a single large mass, which facilitates interaction and visibility. This fragmented approach allows for a variety of public spaces, including outdoor display areas and relaxation zones. Each functional area is carefully considered to serve the educational purpose of the project while enhancing user experience.

Unique Structural Components and Design Approaches

One of the significant aspects of this project is the use of elevated platforms and floating structures. This design choice promotes visual connectivity with the surrounding natural landscape, allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the area while creating a tactile relationship with the environment. It serves to minimize the building's footprint on the site while simultaneously maximizing user engagement with the exterior landscape.

The architectural design incorporates various materials to enhance both the visual and functional aspects of the project. Steel profiles provide structural integrity, while aluminum subframes offer lightweight durability. Extensive use of glass panels creates transparency, blurring the lines between interior and exterior space, effectively inviting the natural light to illuminate internal areas. Corten steel adds a rustic texture that resonates with the natural environment, and board-marked concrete contributes to an earthy, grounded feel.

Sustainability and Environmental Integration

The project prioritizes sustainability through passive and active design strategies. Natural ventilation is achieved via elevated building forms, while strategic orientation and massing ensure optimal light penetration and minimize energy use. The implementation of photovoltaic panels reflects a commitment to renewable energy sources, thus reducing the building's overall carbon footprint.

Landscape integration further enhances the project's environmental focus. Native vegetation is incorporated into the design, supporting local biodiversity and creating educational opportunities for visitors. This approach aligns the architectural ambitions with ecological stewardship, establishing a framework where education and conservation coexist.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs further, one can review the project’s complete presentation. The careful integration of design elements provides insightful architectural ideas aimed at promoting environmental consciousness and user interaction in a natural setting.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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
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