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Fractal Roof Structure Featuring Eco-Friendly Materials in a Community Wellness Facility

Authors:
Isabella Nieling, Benedict Fritz Schnitzler, Monireh Pilehvar, Pascal Johannes Vrijaldenhoven
Fractal Roof Structure Featuring Eco-Friendly Materials in a Community Wellness Facility

Project in-detail

A fractal roof crafted from eco-friendly materials enhances the connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding landscape, supporting various wellness activities in a community-centric facility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fractal roof design enhances natural light and airflow throughout the facility.
02
Use of cross-laminated timber panels contributes to structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide improved durability against the elements.
04
Central courtyard serves as a multifunctional space for community engagement.
05
Adaptable layouts cater to a variety of wellness activities and user needs.
The "Fractal Reflections" architectural project is a comprehensive wellness facility located in Düsseldorf, Germany, adjacent to Swaanenspiegel park. This structure is designed to integrate into its natural surroundings, emphasizing a symbiotic relationship between architecture and the environment. With a primary focus on promoting well-being, the project provides flexible spaces for various health-related activities such as yoga, meditation, and therapy. The design reflects careful consideration of user experience, creating an environment conducive to relaxation and mental clarity.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

"Fractal Reflections" employs biomimicry and fractal geometry as guiding principles. The roof is characterized by a branching fractal pattern that not only serves as an architectural feature but also optimizes natural light and ventilation within the interior spaces. This design choice minimizes energy consumption while enhancing the sensory experience of users.

Materials were selected for both sustainability and aesthetics. The use of wood for structural elements imparts a warm tone, while expansive glass facades facilitate transparency and connectivity with the surrounding landscape. Concrete is utilized for durability and sculptural quality, seamlessly integrating the building into its site. Additionally, stone elements in the landscape reinforce a strong visual link to the natural environment. The incorporation of textiles in furnishings enhances comfort, aligning with the project’s wellness objectives.

Functional Layout and Spaces

The facility has a central courtyard designed as a communal space for gatherings and activities, which branches into several therapy rooms. Each room is carefully positioned to maximize views of the exterior, further integrating the users' experience with nature. The design encourages a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting engagement with the environment.

The flexibility of internal layouts allows for the accommodation of a variety of wellness activities, addressing evolving user needs. This adaptability is a critical aspect of the design, ensuring that the facility can accommodate different programs without compromising functionality or user experience.

The architectural plans and sections provide detailed insights into how the design balances openness with privacy, a crucial factor in wellness architecture. By prioritizing natural light and airflow, the project reinforces the importance of a healthy atmosphere for occupants.

In summary, the "Fractal Reflections" project represents a thoughtful approach to wellness through architecture, integrating sustainable practices with user-centric design. For deeper insights into this architectural endeavor, viewers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs to fully appreciate the innovative ideas employed in this project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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