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Cross-Laminated Timber Enclosure Housing Integrated Pollinator Gardens and Educational Spaces

Authors:
Antony R Brown, Nadia Bégin
Cross-Laminated Timber Enclosure Housing Integrated Pollinator Gardens and Educational Spaces

Project in-detail

Integrating bat habitats and native planting into a cross-laminated timber structure, the facility serves as a dedicated space for ecological education and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels, enhancing structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates built-in bat habitats to promote local wildlife conservation.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural ventilation.
05
Includes dedicated native planting areas to support regional biodiversity.
The Multi-Species Education Center is an architectural project focused on fostering ecological awareness and education. Located on a 26-hectare conservation easement, the center serves as a facility for teaching principles of biodiversity, sustainable practices, and ecological interconnection. The design emphasizes a deep commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility through its innovative architectural strategies and selection of materials.

The building is constructed primarily using cross-laminated timber (CLT), promoting sustainable forestry practices. The circular design is intended to symbolize inclusivity and connectivity, inviting the community to engage with both the architecture and the natural surroundings. The structure incorporates elements that facilitate passive solar heating and natural cooling, thus minimizing energy consumption.

Unique Educational Features
The Multi-Species Education Center stands out due to its integration of living habitats within its architectural framework. Built-in features such as bat attics and nesting boxes serve specific wildlife needs, particularly for local species such as Cliff Swallows. These design approaches bridge human learning and wildlife conservation, enabling occupants to experience and engage with the ecosystem directly. Learning spaces are strategically placed to provide a connection to nature and align educational goals with environmental stewardship.

Innovative Ecological Design
The center exemplifies innovative ecological design through its commitment to energy self-sufficiency and responsible water use. The integration of solar energy systems and a biological wastewater treatment process reflects a comprehensive approach to sustainability. The surrounding landscape is planted with native species that require minimal maintenance, further enhancing the center's focus on conservation and local biodiversity. Each element of the design is carefully considered, ensuring that the facility operates as part of the larger ecological network.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Multi-Species Education Center, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. The insights gained from reviewing these elements will provide a deeper appreciation of the architectural and ecological principles embodied in this thoughtful project.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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