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Floating Pavilions Featuring Transparent Glass and Natural Wood Integration for Contemporary Family Living

Authors:
Ananth Robert Sampathkumar, Mary R Chandrahasan
Floating Pavilions Featuring Transparent Glass and Natural Wood Integration for Contemporary Family Living

Project in-detail

Suspended above tranquil waters, the design integrates transparent glass panels and natural wood to create a seamless connection between interior spaces and nature, serving as a contemporary retreat for a family of four.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating pavilions rest on buoyant foundations, enhancing the relationship with the water.
02
Movable glass panels allow dynamic adjustments to privacy and openness throughout the day.
03
The use of charred wooden shingles provides enhanced durability and aesthetic contrast.
04
Innovative bent A-frame design maximizes spatial efficiency while providing structural integrity.
05
Reflection pools surrounding the pavilions create a serene atmosphere and visual depth.
The House of Pavilions, located in the outskirts of Delhi, India, embodies a contemporary architectural exploration centered on the interplay between space, nature, and functionality. This residential project is designed for a family of four, seeking a harmonious living environment that balances privacy with social engagement. The structure features three distinct pavilions, each serving a unique purpose within a cohesive architectural framework, interconnected by a shallow water body that underscores the design's fluidity.

Architectural Fragmentation and Fluidity

One of the defining aspects of the House of Pavilions is its fragmented architectural approach. Each pavilion is purposefully located on a buoyant foundation, giving the illusion of floating on the surrounding water. This design strategy fosters a unique spatial experience, encouraging interactions with the natural landscape while providing serene retreats for individual inhabitants. The use of transparent materials, particularly glass, facilitates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, further enhancing the relationship with the environment.

The pavilions serve three primary functions: sleeping, cooking, and communal dining. The thoughtful arrangement allows for flexible spatial configurations, enabling adaptations based on the family's needs. Movable glass panels allow residents to adjust the levels of openness and privacy throughout the spaces, emphasizing personal autonomy and encouraging interaction as desired. This adaptability distinguishes the House of Pavilions from traditional residential designs.

Integration of Water and Nature

Another notable feature of the House of Pavilions is the integration of water and natural elements within the design. Surrounding the structures, the reflection pools not only create aesthetic appeal but also contribute to a tranquil atmosphere. This incorporation of water enhances the sensory experience within the pavilions and serves as a cooling mechanism, responding to the regional climate.

The architectural design considers the environmental context and orientation of each pavilion, maximizing views of the surrounding landscape and allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors. This emphasis on sustainability and connection to nature promotes a living environment that is both contemplative and engaging.

In this project, the use of materials is also purposeful and thoughtful. The architectural language combines glass, wood, steel, and concrete to create a harmonious composition that balances durability with visual lightness. Wood elements introduce warmth, while steel provides structural integrity. The juxtaposition of these materials contributes to the modern aesthetic while respect for the local environment remains evident.

Visually engaging architectural details, such as the interplay of light and shadow created by the glass facades and the sculptural forms of the pavilions, further elevate the design. The layout of the pavilions allows for maximum interaction while preserving personal space, embodying a duality that is often overlooked in conventional home designs.

For deeper insights into the architectural concepts and detailed illustrations of the House of Pavilions, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design elements, exploring the project presentation is encouraged. Understanding these architectural ideas can enhance appreciation for the interplay of form and function in this residential masterpiece.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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