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Curved Shelter Composed of Sandwich Panels with Panoramic Views for Cyclists

Authors:
Luca Gebhard, Madina Akkubekova, Valeria Sapigni
Curved Shelter Composed of Sandwich Panels with Panoramic Views for Cyclists
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With its innovative use of curved sandwich panels and a central fireplace, the design creates a communal rest stop for cyclists that emphasizes social interaction and embraces the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved design mimics the mechanics of a bicycle.
02
Modular layout allows for flexible configurations based on user needs.
03
Central fireplace serves as a focal point for community gatherings.
04
Sleeping cabins equipped with a mobile app for individual privacy control.
05
Plywood panels create a warm interior while ensuring easy maintenance.

The rest stop for cyclists is designed to blend functionality with a strong sense of community in a picturesque landscape. Set against the backdrop of nature, this facility serves as a welcoming place for travelers on two wheels. The focus is on creating a recognizable spot that reflects European culture while meeting the basic needs of cyclists. The design encourages interaction and provides essential services such as resting areas, dining spaces, and bike maintenance.

Design Organization

The structure is divided into four modular units, allowing for flexible arrangements based on how long visitors plan to stay. Each module serves a specific purpose, facilitating resting, eating, and socializing. The largest module includes accommodations with private cabins, along with a pavilion for communal dining. A central fireplace is featured as a meeting point, inviting cyclists to gather and share stories.

Architectural Expression

The overall form of the shelter is inspired by bicycle mechanics, emphasizing human creativity and motion. Its curved shape creates an engaging silhouette that interacts with the surrounding light throughout the day. This design element not only enhances the visual appeal but also represents the journey of cycling, reflecting the movement that defines the experience of traveling by bike.

Material Selection

Material choices have been made to support both the durability and visual aesthetic of the structure. The exterior is wrapped in sandwich panels that provide strength while echoing the mechanical nature of bicycles. Corrugated metal forms the outer layer, ensuring protection against weather elements and giving the shelter a distinct character. Inside, the use of plywood panels creates a warm and comfortable environment, functioning well in various cycling locations.

Functional Features

The facility incorporates modern technology to improve user convenience. Each sleeping cabin features a mobile application that allows guests to control access for privacy and security. This practical solution aligns with today's expectations, while the overall design keeps simplicity and functionality at the forefront.

One standout feature of the rest stop is the circular sleeping area, which offers expansive views of the natural surroundings. This design allows cyclists to relax and take in the scenery, making their pause in the journey both refreshing and enjoyable.

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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