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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
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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