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Floating Structure Featuring Sustainable Timber Crafting and Integrated Natural Light

Authors:
海全 唐, 丁萌 吴, 多多 鄢
Floating Structure Featuring Sustainable Timber Crafting and Integrated Natural Light

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this floating pavilion optimizes natural light and embraces its aquatic surroundings, serving as a vibrant cultural hub for community engagement and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating design that utilizes the surrounding water for natural cooling.
02
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.
04
Features a bent A-frame form that optimizes sunlight and views of the landscape.
05
Functions as a multi-use community hub promoting local culture and education.
The Floating Pavilion is an architectural project located in Anlong National Mountain Outdoor Sports Park, Dushan Town, Guizhou Province, China. The design occupies an area of approximately 1,114 square meters and presents a seamless integration of cultural heritage and contemporary ecological awareness. The structure employs a design language that resonates with the local environment and emphasizes sustainability through its floating form.

The pavilion is not merely a physical structure; it represents a dialogue between nature and architecture. The concept draws inspiration from the traditional practices of ancient Chinese wood merchants, encapsulating the idea of "Wooden Pai" or "emission culture." This provides a cultural context that informs the design and emphasizes the importance of preserving local craftsmanship while encouraging social interaction and communal gathering.

Understanding the function of the Floating Pavilion is crucial to appreciating its architectural significance. The space is intended as a community hub that accommodates cultural exhibitions, educational programs, and events. This multifunctional aspect fosters engagement and enhances the community's connection to its heritage and environment. By effectively communicating these themes, the pavilion becomes a vital resource for both locals and visitors.

Design elements that set the Floating Pavilion apart include its structural materials and innovative use of space. The main materials utilized are timber, glass, steel, and concrete. The timber serves as the primary construction material, reflecting traditional craftsmanship, while glass elements facilitate an interaction with the surrounding landscape through transparency and natural light. The use of steel offers structural integrity to the floating design, and concrete is strategically incorporated in the foundation for stability.

A distinctive element of the pavilion is its unique integration with water. Floating architecture poses specific design challenges, yet this project embraces the water body as an integral part of its identity. The structure's placement not only respects the natural landscape but also optimizes thermal performance and natural ventilation. This responsiveness to environmental conditions enhances user experience and supports ecological sustainability.

The pavilion’s design showcases a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor areas, promoting a connection to nature while enhancing the functional layout. The architectural plans of the project highlight the meticulous consideration of space utilization, allowing for flexible configurations that can adapt to various community needs.

Through its thoughtful design and execution, the Floating Pavilion serves as an example of how architecture can successfully merge cultural significance and environmental responsibility. To explore the details of this project further, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation. Such exploration will yield valuable insights into its architectural achievement and functional scope.
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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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