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Floating Pavilion with Latticed Aluminum and Nylon Chambers

Authors:
Eric Matos Marta, Geovane Tiengo De Paula, Marcelo Galli Serra, João Ricardo Mori
Floating Pavilion with Latticed Aluminum and Nylon Chambers
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The pavilion, characterized by its innovative use of buoyant nylon chambers and a structural framework of latticed aluminum, serves as a reflective space that engages visitors in the exploration of human experience amidst verdant urban landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pavilion features buoyant nylon chambers that allow for floating.
02
Structure utilizes a latticed aluminum framework for lightweight strength.
03
Design promotes free movement without hierarchical spaces.
04
Modules suggest a gradual evolution of the human experience.
05
Reflects urban cultural diversity while fostering community interaction.

The pavilion serves as a space for exploring the idea of what it means to be human. It is located in a busy urban environment and aims to foster reflection on the rich tapestry of human experiences. The design is built around three elemental themes: water, earth, and air. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in portraying different aspects of the human journey, from origins and development to aspirations for the future.

Conceptual Framework

The design framework is grounded in the themes of water, earth, and air. Water symbolizes the origin of life, establishing a fundamental link to the beginnings of human existence. Earth reflects the journey of human development, providing a base for understanding human interactions within various contexts. Air represents humanity’s desire for exploration, underscoring an innate drive to reach new heights and experiences.

Spatial Configuration

The pavilion is organized in a way that avoids hierarchical structures, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. There are no main access points, which encourages movement in any direction. This lack of defined pathways allows visitors to explore freely, enabling a more personal interaction with the space. Each area holds equal importance, supporting the narrative that binds the human experience.

Materiality

The structure features a light metallic framework along with cast aluminum and copper plates. These materials lend both strength and an interesting visual character to the building. Additionally, nylon fabric chambers that can inflate are integrated into the design. This innovation enhances the pavilion’s ability to float and adapt, emphasizing themes of transformation and growth throughout the human journey.

Design Details

The pavilion is designed to shift and change, reflecting the continuous evolution of culture and society. Its modular arrangement and varying angles create a sense of progression. As visitors move through the space, they experience different facets of the human condition. This design draws attention to the complexities and interconnectedness of life, encapsulated within a structure thoughtfully shaped by elemental forces.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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