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Erosion-Responsive Installations Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Stone Interaction

Authors:
Alessandro Pennesi, Salvatore Ponzo, Fabio Romenici, Giuseppe Ponzo
Erosion-Responsive Installations Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Stone Interaction

Project in-detail

Incorporating erosion-responsive design with cross-laminated timber and raw stone, this installation invites community interaction while harmonizing with its natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates erosion-responsive design that allows natural elements to shape the installation over time.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to provide durability and a unique aesthetic texture.
04
Integrates natural stone elements that reflect the local geological context.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize light and spatial dynamics.
The architectural project titled "Tellure" emerges as a thoughtful exploration of the relationship between humanity and nature, manifested through a series of thoughtfully designed portals that exemplify modern architectural ideals while echoing timeless principles. Situated in diverse geographical locations, the project reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony, inviting visitors to engage with both the installation and its natural surroundings.

At its core, "Tellure" represents a dialogue about life cycles, regeneration, and the interconnectedness of all living things. The design concept is rooted in the notion of portals, which symbolize gateways to experiences, memories, and histories. Each portal is uniquely crafted, varying in scale and materiality, allowing for an exploration of different architectural techniques and traditions. This variances reveal the evolution of building methods, encouraging viewers to appreciate how architecture has responded over time to both environmental and cultural contexts.

The primary function of "Tellure" is to serve as a communal space that fosters interaction and contemplation. By weaving together themes of nature, growth, and decay, the project invites visitors to reflect on their place within the natural order. Each time someone walks through a portal, they are not merely crossing a physical boundary; they are engaging in a thoughtful exploration of time, space, and their relationship with the earth.

The materials selected for "Tellure" are integral to its narrative. Timber, stone, and concrete are utilized in varying degrees to emphasize not only structural integrity but also the aesthetic qualities of each material. Timber provides warmth and a sense of comfort, while stone speaks to permanence and resilience. Concrete, on the other hand, embodies the advancements of modern technology, illustrating how contemporary architecture can blend seamlessly with natural elements. This combination highlights an important principle of modern architecture: the thoughtful integration of materials to create spaces that resonate with their environment.

A distinctive aspect of "Tellure" lies in its adaptive nature. The project is designed to evolve over time, allowing natural processes such as erosion and growth to shape its appearance. As seasons change, the installation will transform, offering visitors a unique experience every time they engage with the space. This characteristic not only enhances the connection between the installation and its surroundings but also emphasizes the impermanence of human creations in the grand scheme of nature.

The spatial arrangement of the portals is carefully considered, framed to capture light and views of the external landscape. This orientation allows a continual interaction with the environment, drawing visitors to explore their surroundings with renewed curiosity. Visitors are encouraged to take their time walking through the portals, using the experience as an opportunity for contemplation and connection both with nature and with one another.

The project extends its relevance beyond individual experiences, as "Tellure" is envisioned as a space that promotes community engagement. It serves as a venue for gatherings, discussions, and events that allow people to connect with the themes of nature, architecture, and sustainability. The installations are more than mere structures; they are catalysts for social interaction and cultural exchange, reflecting a shared understanding of our place within the ecosystem.

"Tellure" stands out for its unique design approaches that challenge conventional notions of permanence and functionality in architecture. By treating the materials as dynamic participants in the environment, the project invites ongoing dialogue about the role of architecture in encouraging responsible interactions with nature. This thoughtful interplay enriches the overall experience, instilling a sense of awareness and appreciation among its users.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of "Tellure" and to delve deeper into its architectural intricacies, readers are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, sections, and overall designs. This exploration will provide valuable insights into how the project articulates its vision, merging the elemental aspects of nature with contemporary architectural ideas.
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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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