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Curvilinear Glass Enclosure With Natural Wood Elements Elevating Community Interaction

Authors:
Thomas Connolly, Molly-ann Fitzgerald
Curvilinear Glass Enclosure With Natural Wood Elements Elevating Community Interaction

Project in-detail

An undulating glass structure framed by sustainable wood invites the community to engage with nature, forming a versatile gathering space that fosters interaction and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion incorporates a bent A-frame design, allowing for a unique structural aesthetic that enhances visual interest.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels provides both structural strength and environmental sustainability.
03
Large glass elements create an inviting atmosphere, facilitating a strong connection between the interior and the surrounding nature.
04
Charred wooden shingles are used for cladding, offering durability while maintaining an organic appearance.
05
The design promotes natural ventilation, enhancing user comfort while minimizing reliance on mechanical systems.
The Pavilion of Humanity: The Oculus exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that prioritizes interaction, community, and environmental harmony. Situated within an urban park, this design seeks to create an inviting space that serves both functional and experiential purposes. The pavilion stands as a representation of contemporary architectural ideals, where the built environment encourages visitors to engage with each other and their surroundings.

This architectural project functions as a multifunctional social hub, offering spaces for gathering, contemplation, and community events. Its design emphasizes a seamless integration with the natural landscape, fostering a sense of connection between humanity and nature. From its very layout, the pavilion is conceived as a flowing, organic form that resonates with the contours of the park, drawing visitors into its embrace.

Key elements of the pavilion include well-defined public gathering zones that feature versatile seating arrangements, allowing groups to congregate easily. The pathways connecting these areas are designed with fluidity in mind, promoting a sense of movement as visitors navigate through the space. This layered organization not only facilitates social interactions but also encourages exploration, as individuals are invited to discover various aspects of the pavilion and its surroundings.

The architectural design incorporates significant transparency and openness, primarily through the use of glass. These large expanses enable ample sunlight to filter inside, creating an airy atmosphere while reinforcing the connection to the outside world. This thoughtful use of materials contributes to the overall sensory experience within the space, as visitors can observe changes in light throughout the day.

Additionally, the roofline of the pavilion is marked by its undulating form, which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also serves a functional purpose. The design incorporates natural ventilation strategies, allowing airflow to circulate effectively, ensuring a comfortable environment regardless of external weather conditions. The interplay of light and shadow created by the architecture adds a dynamic quality to the interior, allowing the human experience within the space to evolve throughout the day.

The material palette is carefully selected to align with the project's environmental ethos. Reinforced concrete provides the necessary structural integrity, while wood is utilized for seating and framework elements, adding warmth and a sense of grounding. Steel is strategically employed to enhance the roof structure, further ensuring the durability of this community-focused space. This considered materiality highlights a commitment to sustainability, as well as a desire to create a welcoming environment for users.

What sets this project apart is its unique design approach, which synthesizes architecture and environmental context. The Pavilion of Humanity invites users not just to occupy a space, but to engage with it and explore their relationship with both architecture and nature. The pavilion serves as a vital link between cultural engagement and the natural world, encouraging outdoor activities and educational opportunities.

This architectural project is designed to fulfill various community needs, embodying ideals that promote social interaction, environmental awareness, and cultural exchange. Individuals are encouraged to experience the rich dialogue established between the pavilion and its context through an exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs that articulate this vision. For a more detailed understanding of the Pavilion of Humanity and its innovative architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation, where the intricacies of this thoughtful design can be explored further.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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