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Curvilinear Pavilion Crafted from Plywood and Timber for Engaging Child Play

Authors:
Daniela González, Karen Vargas, Gabriel Islas, David Durana
Curvilinear Pavilion Crafted from Plywood and Timber for Engaging Child Play

Project in-detail

Crafted from curvilinear plywood and timber, this playful pavilion invites children to explore their creativity through interactive play in a design that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion features a curvilinear design that encourages exploration and playfulness among children.
02
Constructed primarily from plywood, the structure showcases flexibility in both form and functionality.
03
The unique bent A-frame design enhances structural integrity while creating engaging play spaces.
04
Natural wood finishes are complemented by charred wooden shingles, promoting durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Thoughtfully integrated with its surroundings, the pavilion fosters a seamless connection between nature and play.
PlayWood represents a thoughtful exploration of space designed specifically for children, blending the concepts of play and learning within an interactive architectural framework. This project revolves around creating an environment that encourages imaginative engagement while providing a safe and stimulating setting for physical activity. Located in a natural environment conducive to exploration, PlayWood stands out as a modern interpretation of traditional play structures, offering children a unique space that harmonizes with its surroundings.

Functionally, PlayWood is not just a playground; it acts as a pavilion where various activities can unfold. Its design is centered around open connectivity, allowing children to traverse different sections with visual and physical ease. This open layout promotes socialization, teamwork, and cooperative play. The architecture invites curiosity and adventure, encouraging children to explore and make their own rules of engagement within the space. By prioritizing versatility, PlayWood caters to diverse play experiences, accommodating children of varying ages and abilities.

At the core of the architectural design are materials that reflect both the playful intent and commitment to sustainability. Wood is the primary material, selected for its warmth and intrinsic connection to nature. Plywood is employed strategically to create rounded forms that soften the structure’s silhouette while allowing flexibility in design. The decision to integrate wooden features also emphasizes safety, ensuring that the play areas provide an inviting atmosphere free from harsh materials. Metal fasteners serve as functional elements that support the architectural integrity of the structure without detracting from its playful essence.

The design incorporates a circular plan, an approach that fosters exploration. Children are encouraged to move freely, with gentle slopes and varying heights creating a sense of adventure. Subtle texture variations in the wooden surfaces further enhance tactile engagement and stimulate the senses. Elements such as climbing walls, slides, and balance beams are seamlessly integrated into the architecture, providing opportunities for physical activity that promote motor skill development. The layout not only allows for individual play but also facilitates group interactions, nurturing social bonds among children.

Unique design approaches are woven throughout PlayWood, with particular emphasis on creating an environment that thrives on natural learning. The architectural choices reflect an understanding of childhood behaviors and preferences, resulting in spaces that resonate with children’s innate instincts to explore and imagine. By blending educational potential with active play, PlayWood embodies a practical realization of how architecture can serve specific community needs.

As a piece of architecture, PlayWood enhances its site by establishing a dialogue with the surrounding landscape. Its organic forms and natural materials ensure that it feels like a coherent extension of the environment rather than an intrusion. The structure becomes a part of the experience of nature, encouraging children to appreciate their surroundings while engaged in play.

In summary, PlayWood is a comprehensive architectural exploration aimed at enriching the play experience for children. Its design illustrates a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and educational value all grounded in an understanding of children's developmental needs. For those interested in delving deeper into the project, including the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that shaped this unique design, I encourage you to engage with the project presentation for a richer understanding of its intricacies and intention.
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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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