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Exploring Immersive Space Through Radial Design and Textured Concrete Elements

Author:
Sepideh Sarpishehgi
Exploring Immersive Space Through Radial Design and Textured Concrete Elements

Project in-detail

Utilizing radial geometry and textured concrete, the structure invites visitors to navigate between illuminated and shadowed spaces, creating a thoughtful environment focused on an interactive exhibit.
5 key facts about this project
01
Radial geometry enhances visitor flow and exploration.
02
Textured concrete surfaces create varying tactile experiences.
03
Strategic lighting contrasts illuminate the central exhibit.
04
Dark chambers heighten sensory awareness and engagement.
05
Natural materials integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

### Overview

The pavilion, titled "Unseen," is situated in a geographic context conducive to innovative abstraction. It functions as an exploration of perception within spatial design, articulating a dialogue between constructive elements and experiential qualities. The design emphasizes the tension between light and darkness, prompting visitors to engage with the architectural form and transition between familiar and unfamiliar spaces.

### Spatial Strategy

The pavilion's layout is organized radially into three primary zones, with a central core dedicated to the main exhibit, informally known as "the flyer." This central space serves as the focal point for engagement. Surrounding this core are dark rooms that intentionally redirect visitor focus toward the flyer, creating a sequential navigation experience. The perimeter features an interval space that integrates natural light, enhancing the sensory experience and establishing contrast between illuminated and shadowed areas. This deliberate arrangement fosters an engaging narrative, guiding visitors through a varied interplay of visibility.

### Materiality and Construction

Material selection is integral to conveying the pavilion's conceptual focus. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing both strength and aesthetic depth, while glass is incorporated for skylights and openings to facilitate natural light variation. An exposed metal framework enhances the modernist sensibility of the structure, supporting the central exhibit and contributing to the overall aesthetic. Wood finishes are implemented within the interior, adding warmth and engaging in dialogue with the more industrial materials present. Each material choice is purposefully aligned with the thematic exploration of visibility and obscurity, reinforcing the overall design intent.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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