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Harnessing Natural Light Through Transparent Glass and Sculptural Timber Elements in Community Spaces

Authors:
Hatice Goksin, Busra Dinar
Harnessing Natural Light Through Transparent Glass and Sculptural Timber Elements in Community Spaces

Project in-detail

The thoughtful integration of transparent glass and sculptural timber elements creates an immersive environment that enhances interaction with natural light, serving as a versatile community space for workshops and gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thoughtfully designed to utilize natural light, maximizing exposure through expansive glass walls.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a distinctive aesthetic.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal acoustics within communal spaces.
05
Includes ramps that promote accessibility while enhancing the overall spatial experience.
The Pavilion of Humanity exemplifies a contemporary architectural response to its environment, articulating the intersection between human experience and natural phenomena. This project is designed as a space that fosters interaction, reflection, and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape, specifically influenced by the phenomenon of the northern lights. The building's layout emphasizes not only functionality but also an immersive experience, allowing users to directly engage with light as a central component of the architectural narrative.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The Pavilion is strategically organized into several functional areas that include workshops, exhibition spaces, and communal areas such as cafeterias. This organization promotes an efficient flow of movement while encouraging social interaction among users. The architectural design prioritizes versatility, allowing for a range of events and activities to take place, each benefiting from the inherent qualities of light within the space. The use of ramps facilitates accessibility and creates an engaging circulation path, guiding visitors through the various components of the Pavilion while experiencing different interactions with light and space.

Innovative Material and Design Approaches

What distinguishes the Pavilion of Humanity is its focus on light as a material, viewing it as an integral aspect of the visitor experience rather than merely a byproduct of the architectural environment. The interplay of light and space is deliberately orchestrated through the use of exhibition walls that are likely made from glass or other transparent materials. This design approach highlights the ephemeral quality of light, allowing it to shape the interior ambiance dynamically throughout the day. The Pavilion's core structure is designed to support not only the physical components but also to enhance the overall experience of light moving through the space.

Furthermore, the architectural design effectively incorporates both open and enclosed areas, facilitating varied experiences within a single framework. Open spaces are designed for collaboration and community, while intimate enclaves provide places for solitude and contemplation. This duality promotes a holistic relationship between the building's users and their environment, encouraging a deeper understanding of the natural phenomena that surround them.

Engaging with the Pavilion of Humanity offers a compelling opportunity to explore its architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. Those interested in understanding the nuances of this project are encouraged to investigate the extensive design documentation, which includes comprehensive representations of its spatial organization, functional layout, and innovative use of light as a material.
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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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