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Illuminated Spaces for Reflection in a Pavilion for Extraterrestrial Visitors

Authors:
Hye seung Kim, So young Yoon
Illuminated Spaces for Reflection in a Pavilion for Extraterrestrial Visitors

Project in-detail

With its intentionally tilted form allowing natural light to create dynamic contrasts of illumination, the pavilion serves as a reflective space for diverse spiritual practices and cultural exchanges among extraterrestrial visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pavilion design incorporates a bent A-frame structure for enhanced light dynamics.
02
Illuminated prayer areas are strategically placed to foster spiritual engagement.
03
The layout emphasizes a journey of transference, assimilation, and dissemination of religious beliefs.
04
Openings in the structure create dynamic light and shadow play throughout the day.
05
Exhibition zones showcase the historical significance of global religions in one space.

The pavilion is designed for extraterrestrial visitors, located at the intersection of culture and spirituality. It acts as a connection between Earth and outside life, fostering communication and understanding among various belief systems. Its overall concept highlights how closely intertwined humanity and religion are, emphasizing these themes in both its function and design.

Spatial Experience

The structure is organized around the ideas of "transference - assimilation - dissemination," guiding visitors through a journey that explores the development of religious thought over time. In the southern section, exhibition zones present a variety of global religions and their historical importance. This arrangement helps deepen visitors’ appreciation of humanity’s shared narrative while showcasing the rich diversity of beliefs that exist.

Natural Lighting

A key feature of the pavilion's design is its intentional tilt. This allows for natural light to come in through carefully positioned openings. The resulting interplay of light and shadow creates a welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of reflection and contemplation. As sunlight shifts throughout the day, the pavilion transforms, providing visitors with different visual experiences and enhancing their connection to the space.

Sacred Spaces

Throughout the pavilion, illuminated prayer areas invite individuals to engage in reflective practices. These thoughtfully designed spots create a sacred environment where visitors can connect with their spirituality. The thoughtful use of light and open space transforms the pavilion into more than just an architectural form; it becomes a place where people of different faiths can find common ground and shared understanding.

Enduring Design

The pavilion seeks to serve as an enduring symbol of resilience. It captures the ongoing conversation between humanity, spirituality, and the cosmos. Details such as expansive views and open areas draw visitors into a dialogue, allowing them to contemplate their place in the universe. Each corner of the pavilion contributes to a feeling of unity and introspection, reinforcing the significance of spiritual narratives in shaping human identity.

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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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