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Kinetic Cocoon Cells and Natural Light in a Textile Community Hub

Author:
Teerat Chaiyatham
Kinetic Cocoon Cells and Natural Light in a Textile Community Hub

Project in-detail

Rotating grid cells mimic the cocooning phase of silk production while harnessing natural light to create a dynamic, educational hub that engages the community in traditional textile craftsmanship.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating grid cells replicate the cocooning phase of silk production, enhancing user interaction.
02
Natural light is strategically channeled through glass elements, promoting energy efficiency.
03
Interactive dyeing zones transform thread colors, integrating dynamic aesthetics into the architecture.
04
Workshops are designed with flexible layouts to accommodate various educational programs.
05
Materials include locally sourced timber and charcoal-treated wood for sustainability and durability.

## Overview

Located in Southeast Asia, the project focuses on the region's rich history of silk production and craftsmanship, aiming to rejuvenate traditional silk-making practices while incorporating contemporary architectural approaches. The design creates multifunctional spaces that accommodate educational, cultural, and commercial activities, fostering interactions between craftsmanship and user experiences.

## Spatial Strategy and Interaction

The project utilizes a conceptual framework centered on the various stages of silk production—cocooning, threading, dyeing, and weaving—transforming these processes into distinct spatial configurations. Each area is designed to encourage user engagement and interaction, with dynamic spaces that adapt to various functions, from workshops to exhibitions. The three-story library features rotating grid cells that symbolize the cocooning phase, reflecting kinetic architecture that embodies growth and movement.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material palette showcases a blend of traditional and modern elements, reinforcing the connection to silk production. Silk threads are integrated into design elements, while transparent and frosted glass panels enhance natural light penetration and create an interplay of colors. Concrete provides structural durability, complemented by warm wooden finishes and various textiles that reflect the craft-oriented focus. The design emphasizes sustainability, with structures designed to maximize natural lighting and minimize energy consumption, ensuring a visually appealing and environmentally conscious environment.

## Design Details and User Experience

Key spaces within the project include an interactive color dyeing zone that incorporates dyed threads into the façade, responding to light and user activity. The weaving preparation workshop is characterized by ample windows that allow sunlight to cast dynamic shadows, echoing the weaving process. Exhibition areas are specifically designed to promote cultural exchange and engagement, creating an inclusive environment that caters to a diverse audience. Open planning principles facilitate communal activities, ensuring that all spaces are accessible and user-friendly, thus encouraging varied levels of interaction across the facility.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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