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Cultural Center Showcasing Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles in an Engaging Natural Landscape

Author:
Maria Goncharova
Cultural Center Showcasing Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles in an Engaging Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

This cultural center seamlessly blends cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles with a series of interconnected circular pathways, creating an inviting space that encourages community engagement while harmonizing with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates a dry creek that naturally integrates with the landscape, enhancing drainage while adding a dynamic visual feature.
02
Circular pathways throughout the site create an intuitive flow that encourages exploration and interaction among visitors.
03
A cantilevered roof structure provides not only aesthetic appeal but also maximizes natural light within the interior spaces.
04
The combination of charred wooden shingles and local stone creates a harmonious blend that complements the surrounding environment.
05
An interactive children's playground is designed using circular motifs, reinforcing the theme of continuity and engagement while ensuring safety and creativity in play.
The architectural project "The Circles of Time" embodies an intricate journey through the notion of time and the relationship between human activity and the natural landscape. This design project focuses on creating spaces that encourage reflection and connection, formed around circular and elliptical motifs that symbolize the cyclical nature of existence. As a whole, this architecture is not just about utility; it aims to foster a profound experience that resonates with inhabitants and visitors alike.

In exploring the functionality of the project, various programmatic elements serve distinct purposes while working harmoniously within the larger theme. The design includes recreational areas, exhibition spaces, and dining zones, all carefully arranged to facilitate movement and exploration. The circular pathways and open spaces invite visitors to engage with their surroundings and create a sense of continuity and flow.

Each important detail has been meticulously crafted to reinforce the project's conceptual framework. The overall spatial arrangement reflects an understanding of human beings' innate connection to nature. The architectural design incorporates an open layout that enhances interpersonal interaction and collective experiences, while softer, more intimate spaces allow for solitary reflection. The use of glass in the façade plays a critical role in this interaction, as it provides transparency and blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This choice not only reflects the landscape's beauty but also fosters an awareness of the changing seasons and the passage of time.

Material selection is vital in framing the character of this design. By incorporating natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal, the architecture emphasizes a grounded aesthetic that complements the surrounding environment. Wood brings warmth and approachability, while stone serves as a durable yet aesthetically pleasing element that enhances the landscape. The incorporation of metal, in selected structural components, adds a contemporary touch and ensures the resilience of the design.

The project also features unique design approaches that enhance its function and character. For instance, the cantilevered roof creates an illusion of lightness and freedom, defying conventional expectations of structural design. This architectural choice optimizes natural light within interior spaces while offering visual delight. Additionally, the integration of interactive features, like a children's playground and contemplative outdoor spaces, fosters community engagement and encourages visitors to immerse themselves fully in the experience.

The landscaping is another foundational aspect of the project, blending seamlessly with the built structures to create a cohesive environment. The dry creek running through the site serves both aesthetic and practical purposes; it enhances natural drainage while providing a visual cue that aligns with the cyclical theme. Vegetation plays a significant role in maintaining the diversity of the environment, contributing to the sensory experience while emphasizing the beauty inherent in seasonal change.

For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of this architectural endeavor, delving into the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer deeper insights into the thoughtful considerations and unique ideas that inform this project. This exploration not only highlights the methodologies employed but also showcases the potential impact of the architecture on visitors’ experiences. Engaging with the design details will provide valuable lessons in how architecture can effectively express concepts and values, emphasizing the significant interplay between built form and the natural world.

We invite you to explore the presentation of "The Circles of Time" to see how all these elements coalesce into a coherent and purposeful architectural narrative that speaks to the intricate relationship between time, architecture, and the environment.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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