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Discovering Transparency in Minimalist Elevation and Spatial Depth

Authors:
Polina Sencu, Mihaela Apostolidis, Merve baise Uysal, Andrei casian Ciurezu
Discovering Transparency in Minimalist Elevation and Spatial Depth

Project in-detail

A subtle elevation allows the Pavilion of Reflections to blend with the landscape, while its thoughtful spatial arrangement emphasizes transparency and depth, creating an immersive environment for contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to encourage reflection through a careful arrangement of spaces.
02
Integrates a slight elevation to provide unobstructed views of the surroundings.
03
Features a basement area that enhances experiential depth and exploration.
04
Emphasizes transparency in design to foster a connection with nature.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.

The Pavilion of Reflections is an architectural design that focuses on the relationship between cinema and architecture in a space intended for contemplation and interaction. Located in a natural environment, the pavilion aims to create an experience that connects its users with their surroundings. The design emphasizes how physical structure and experiential qualities can work together, drawing inspiration from filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard’s ideas.

Spatial Integration

The pavilion is designed to interact with the landscape, featuring a slight rise that allows it to blend into its surroundings. This elevated position provides unobstructed views of the natural scenery and allows the structure to exist without dominating the site. By carefully placing the pavilion, the design respects the topography and encourages an appreciation for the views surrounding it.

Minimalist Approach

A key aspect of the design is its minimalistic approach. It uses only essential elements that support the overall experience without adding unnecessary details. The structure illustrates a transformation from a solid form to a soft transparency that allows natural light to filter in. This clarity in design helps visitors engage with both the space and the environment, creating a calming atmosphere suitable for reflection.

Experiential Depth

The layout of the pavilion includes a descent into a basement area, offering a contrasting experience between the open spaces above and the enclosed areas below. This design creates a sense of exploration as visitors move through the building, allowing them to engage with different experiences at each level. The transition between above and below ground shapes a journey that encourages contemplation and personal connection.

Through its thoughtful design and attention to spatial relationships, the Pavilion of Reflections serves as a place of quiet reflection. It aims to create connections between people and the environment. As visitors approach the pavilion, they encounter a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, revealing how the structure and the landscape influence and complement each other. The design invites users to pause and consider their surroundings in a meaningful way.

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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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