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Hyperboloid Roof with Anthracite Slate and Community Gathering Spaces

Authors:
Telemak Ananyan, Isabella Harutyunyan
Hyperboloid Roof with Anthracite Slate and Community Gathering Spaces

Project in-detail

With a hyperboloid roof clad in anthracite slate and integrated skylights, the design provides an innovative solution for community engagement through its multifunctional cinema, exhibition, and café spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features a distinctive hyperboloid roof design that enhances natural lighting.
02
Each module is supported by a parametric metal mesh shell, offering unique structural aesthetics.
03
Skylights are strategically placed to optimize light distribution while minimizing glare.
04
Tables in the outdoor area are inspired by dragon egg shapes, adding thematic cohesion.
05
A comprehensive drainage system irrigates surrounding vegetation, promoting ecological sustainability.

The design consists of 15 modules, each measuring 9x9 meters, arranged in a triangular layout that suggests the form of a soaring bird or the mythical Icelandic dragon. Located in a place that promotes community interaction, the structure serves multiple purposes including cinema viewings, exhibitions, and social gatherings. The overall concept centers on connecting various spaces while incorporating natural light and sustainable practices throughout.

Geometric Organization

The arrangement features a distinctive layout characterized by parametric metal mesh shells over each module, supported by four corner pillars. Above, the roof takes the shape of a hyperboloid, covered with anthracite slate tiles that create a repeating pattern. This complex structure not only has visual appeal but also serves practical purposes, especially in managing light within the building.

Interior Layout

Inside, the design includes three main functional areas: a cinema section that contains a cinema hall and lobby, an exhibition pavilion, and a café area. These spaces are linked by a covered atrium that acts as an inner courtyard, allowing for smooth movement between areas. This thoughtful organization accommodates a variety of activities, from film screenings and discussions to social engagement in the café, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Sustainable Features

Passive solar architecture techniques are employed throughout the design. Skylights bring in diffused natural light, enriching the first-floor interiors. These openings not only contribute to the atmosphere but also help with thermal insulation, reducing the need for artificial lights. Additionally, the drainage system directs excess rainfall for irrigation of surrounding plants, addressing environmental considerations within the project.

Material Choices

Material selection is key to creating an inviting atmosphere within the structure. Cork is used extensively for flooring in spaces like the cinema hall, foyer, exhibition pavilion, and café, while cork furniture adds to visitor comfort. Vinyl flooring is proposed for practical areas, including kitchens and restrooms. This careful choice of materials balances aesthetics with functionality, illustrating how design can support meaningful use.

The design highlights the roof's unique shape known as a flake roof, which, combined with triangular skylights, brings an engaging quality to the interiors. The play of light and shadow enhances the connection to the natural surroundings, creating an inviting environment for all who enter.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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