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Food court featuring modular designs with treated pine decking and translucent PVC panels in a forest setting

Author:
Stuart Kelly
Food court featuring modular designs with treated pine decking and translucent PVC panels in a forest setting

Project in-detail

Nestled in the Hansui Forest, this food court seamlessly combines treated pine decking and translucent PVC panels within a modular, hexagonal structure that embraces the natural landscape while promoting sustainable dining experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The food court's structure preserves existing trees, allowing nature to coexist with the built environment.
02
A hexagonal modular decking system allows for versatile reconfiguration of seating arrangements according to event needs.
03
The food stalls utilize a minimalist, free-standing design that minimizes material usage while maintaining structural stability.
04
Solar-powered lighting is integrated into the architecture, enhancing sustainability and reducing energy consumption.
05
Translucent PVC panels are used to optimize natural daylight, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere while reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
The project in focus is a well-conceived architectural design for a food court located in the Hansui Forest. This project blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, creating a space that encourages social interaction while emphasizing environmental sustainability. The architecture serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, establishing a communal hub that invites visitors to gather, share meals, and engage in various activities against a backdrop of lush greenery.

At its core, the project represents a thoughtful approach to modern community spaces. It emphasizes the importance of connection—not only among individuals but also with the environment. The thoughtful design is evident in the layout and the choice of materials, both of which reflect an intention to harmonize with nature rather than disrupt it. Through this architecture, the project strives to foster community bonds while providing a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who visits.

The function of this food court is multi-faceted. It is designed to serve as a vibrant marketplace for food vendors, creating an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to sample various culinary offerings. The space is versatile, accommodating different event setups and user experiences throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy outdoor dining while being enveloped in the serene beauty of the forest. The modularity of the layout allows for easy reconfiguration, enabling the space to adapt to different group sizes and events.

Key elements of the design are rooted in sustainability and user-centric functionality. One notable feature of this project is the modular timber decking, crafted from treated pine. This hexagonal decking both accommodates foot traffic and provides a unique visual element that evokes the structure of a honeycomb, symbolizing unity and togetherness. Each section can be rearranged, allowing for flexibility in the seating arrangement and facilitating a dynamic social environment.

The food stalls themselves exhibit an innovative design that is both practical and visually appealing. They take cues from architectural principles favoring structural integrity, utilizing materials such as cement blocks for stability. The absence of excessive fasteners like nails and screws enhances the aesthetic simplicity of the stalls while ensuring they are still durable and functional. Additionally, the use of translucent PVC corrugated panels maximizes natural light, creating an inviting ambiance throughout the food court.

The thoughtful incorporation of furniture further elevates user experience. Lightweight materials are used for tables and chairs, ensuring they are portable and easily reconfigurable for various occasions. Furthermore, their stackable design speaks to the efficiency required in a space that sees high foot traffic during events.

In keeping with the overall theme of ecological responsibility, the project prioritizes the preservation of the existing landscape. Large trees have been thoughtfully integrated into the design, allowing them to remain undisturbed while the surrounding architecture complements their presence. Softscape and landscaping features contribute to a soothing environment, making the food court not only a place to eat but also a pleasant area to relax and socialize.

The project's emphasis on sustainable energy solutions is also notable, particularly with the integration of solar-powered lighting within the food stalls. This decision reflects a commitment to reducing the environmental footprint while enhancing safety and visibility in the evenings.

In summary, the architecture of the food court in Hansui Forest represents a harmonious blend of community engagement, modern design, and ecological awareness. By thoughtfully addressing the needs of its users while respecting the natural habitat, the project sets a standard for future developments in similar locales. For a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural endeavor, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation, which includes detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the various innovative ideas behind this unique project.
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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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