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Curved Curtains and Communal Tables Within a Wooded Dining Retreat

Author:
Selin nisa Acikel
Curved Curtains and Communal Tables Within a Wooded Dining Retreat

Project in-detail

Semi-transparent curtains frame communal tables that invite connection in a tranquil wooded environment, creating a space for dining that blends nature with social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Semi-transparent curtains allow varying levels of light and privacy.
02
Long communal tables promote social interaction in a natural setting.
03
The design incorporates a central hub for both lively and quiet dining experiences.
04
Adjustable facade elements enhance flexibility in response to climate.
05
Natural views are framed throughout to connect diners with the surrounding forest.

The Sansusi 2023 project is located in a woodland area and focuses on creating a space for communal dining and individual reflection. It encourages interaction with both nature and others, emphasizing a connection between the built environment and its natural setting. The design aims to bring together people, trees, and light to create a unique dining experience.

Spatial Organization

At the heart of the project is a central hub designed for social gatherings. This area includes clear zones for queuing and serving food, allowing for smooth movement among patrons. The layout supports active engagement while also providing moments of quiet, balancing the lively atmosphere of the food court with spaces for personal enjoyment.

Materiality and Boundaries

The project incorporates semi-transparent fabric to create boundaries within the space. This material serves to separate the busy food court from more tranquil dining areas. By using fabric, the design allows for both social interaction and solitary meals, giving diners a chance to connect with nature while enjoying their time.

Light and Atmosphere

Light plays an important role in shaping the environment of the project. With carefully placed openings, natural light filters into the interior, creating varying conditions throughout the day. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the atmosphere, making the space feel inviting and comfortable, while also allowing shadows to dance across surfaces.

Flexibility in Design

Adjustable curtains on the facade provide flexibility for users. With these curtains, guests can control their surroundings based on the weather or their preference for privacy. This adaptability makes the space versatile, catering to different needs and enhancing the overall experience.

The architecture culminates in the design of long communal tables. These tables invite gatherings and discussions, positioned along airy corridors that offer views of the surrounding forest. The arrangement fosters an appreciation for nature while allowing a sense of community to flourish.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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