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Glowing Polycarbonate Facades and Lightweight Structures in a Forest-Focused Community Food Court

Authors:
Shimin Zhou, Wanning Liao
Glowing Polycarbonate Facades and Lightweight Structures in a Forest-Focused Community Food Court

Project in-detail

With its glowing polycarbonate facades and a focus on lightweight structure, the community food court seamlessly integrates into the forested landscape, creating a gathering space that invites connection and collaboration among visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes polycarbonate panels to enhance natural light while providing insulation.
02
Incorporates CNC pre-cut plywood for efficient, low-waste construction.
03
Features a versatile layout that encourages social interaction among visitors.
04
Integrates seamlessly with the surrounding forest environment through thoughtful placement.
05
Includes outdoor seating designed for varied group sizes, promoting community engagement.
The project at hand embodies a contemporary architectural design that prioritizes sustainability and community interaction while respecting its natural surroundings. Set against a backdrop of trees and open spaces, the project functions as a food court comprising three main structures: a bar, a coffee shop, and a snack stand. Each of these structures has been strategically positioned to facilitate circulation and encourage social engagement among users.

The architecture of the food court provides not only a place for dining but also serves as a gathering space that promotes a sense of community. The layout enhances user experience by allowing easy movement between different facilities and outdoor seating areas. This design approach helps to foster informal interactions among visitors, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages them to come together over food and fellowship.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its seamless integration with the natural environment. The design emphasizes transparency through the use of polycarbonate panels, which serve as the walls of the structures. This choice of material allows ample natural light to filter through, creating a warm and welcoming internal environment while also reducing energy consumption. The panels also offer a visually appealing nighttime glow, transforming the space into a lively hub during the evening hours.

The construction methodology is particularly noteworthy, as it utilizes prefabrication to minimize construction waste and streamline the building process. CNC pre-cut plywood serves as a primary material for structural elements and furnishings, allowing for precise assembly and ease of installation. This not only enhances the efficiency of the construction but also aligns with the project's commitment to sustainability, as the manufacturing process generates minimal waste.

In addition to the polycarbonate panels and plywood, other materials such as recyclable polystyrene foam are incorporated to improve insulation, further contributing to the energy efficiency of the buildings. All chosen materials reflect a commitment to ecological responsibility, balancing the need for durability with environmental considerations.

The thoughtful arrangement of the buildings creates spaces that encourage various forms of interaction, whether it be intimate gatherings, larger social events, or quiet moments of solitude amidst nature. The outdoor seating is designed to accommodate different group sizes, inviting diverse community members to enjoy the space. This attention to user experience is a hallmark of the design, ensuring that the project is not just visually appealing but also practical and functional.

This architecture project stands out for its dedication to honoring the surrounding landscape while providing a unique venue for community engagement. The careful selection of materials, innovative construction methods, and user-focused design culminate in a food court that serves as both a culinary destination and a space for social connection. To gain a deeper understanding of the nuances and specifics of the design, including architectural plans and sections, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive view of its many elements and architectural ideas.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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