Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Hearth-Centered Community Pavilion Constructed With Volcanic Rock and Glass In A Coastal Setting

Authors:
Francisca Gonzalez, Pablo Arias, Pola Ovando, Samuel Carmona
Hearth-Centered Community Pavilion Constructed With Volcanic Rock and Glass In A Coastal Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed from volcanic rock and glass, the pavilion’s circular form houses a central hearth and serves as a communal space for cultural celebrations and educational events on Rapa Nui.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic rock to reflect the island's geology.
02
Incorporates a central hearth, emphasizing communal gathering and cultural ritual.
03
Features a circular design that promotes inclusivity and interaction among visitors.
04
Utilizes large glass panels to enhance natural light and visual connection with the landscape.
05
Integrates sustainable building practices, including passive climate control techniques.
The "Race of the Bird-Man" Pavilion is an architectural project located on Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. This structure serves as a cultural monument, commemorating the traditional Tangata Manu ritual, which involved a competitive race to retrieve the first egg of the manutara bird. The project’s primary function is to create a space for community gatherings, exhibitions, and educational events that honor and reflect the island's historical narrative.

The architectural design features a circular form that promotes inclusivity and participation while embodying themes of community and connection. The layout is strategically organized to facilitate movement, encouraging visitors to engage with the space and experience the cultural significance of the pavilion first-hand. A central hearth serves as a pivotal element within the structure, symbolizing warmth and communal gathering, reminiscent of traditional practices.

The integration of locally sourced materials such as volcanic rock emphasizes the project’s connection to Rapa Nui's geology, offering stability and strength to the design. Glass elements are incorporated to enhance transparency and allow natural light to permeate the interior, fostering a sense of openness and connection to the surrounding environment. Steel, used for structural components, provides a contemporary contrast to natural materials, reinforcing the design’s modernity while maintaining respect for cultural heritage.

Unique Design Approaches and Contextual Integration
The pavilion’s positioning along the rugged coastline not only harmonizes with the island’s topography but also establishes a dialogue with the ocean, deepening the connection to Rapa Nui’s identity. This contextual integration reflects an essential understanding of the landscape and cultural significance, enhancing the project’s overall impact.

Sustainability plays a critical role in the design strategy. The pavilion incorporates passive heating and cooling techniques which make use of Rapa Nui’s climate, demonstrating a commitment to ecological stewardship. The project also emphasizes flexibility, enabling it to host a variety of events and activities, thereby fostering ongoing community engagement.

Cultural Imagery and Visitor Experience
Internally, the pavilion is adorned with murals and artistic representations that narrate the story of the Tangata Manu, offering visitors an immersive experience that bridges history and contemporary interpretation. The thoughtful use of space and design allows for various configurations, making it suitable for educational programs, ceremonies, and exhibitions that promote cultural dialogue.

With its emphasis on community, sustainability, and cultural integrity, the "Race of the Bird-Man" Pavilion stands as a significant architectural project that underscores the importance of tradition in contemporary society. For an in-depth examination of its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy