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Megalithic Structure Embraces Earthy Textures with Local Sand, Stones, and Wood

Author:
Alejandra Collao britto
Megalithic Structure Embraces Earthy Textures with Local Sand, Stones, and Wood

Project in-detail

Constructed with local sand, stones, and wood, this pavilion integrates megalithic elements into its design to promote cultural engagement and education in the context of the Tiahuanacota civilization.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion incorporates megaliths that blend with the surrounding landscape.
02
Local materials such as sand, stones, reeds, and wood are used throughout the construction.
03
Designed to promote cultural engagement with the heritage of the Tiahuanacota civilization.
04
The layout facilitates social interaction with designated areas for workshops and exhibitions.
05
Its temporary design intentionally merges with permanent natural features of the site.

The Pavilion of Humanity is located in Guaqui, by the shores of Lake Titicaca. It functions as a space for cultural exchange and learning, reflecting the heritage of the Tiahuanacota civilization, known for its impressive engineering and architecture. The design emphasizes harmony with the natural environment and aims to engage the community with the history of the region.

Conceptual Framework

Rooted in the significance of the Tiahuanacota civilization, the pavilion creates a connection between past and present. It acknowledges the civilization’s characteristic megalithic structures and integrates those themes into its design. By being close to important archaeological sites, the pavilion serves as a cultural landmark that encourages visitors to explore local history and its relevance today.

Material Selection

The Pavilion of Humanity uses materials sourced from the surrounding area, including sand, stones, reeds, and wood. These choices reflect the building methods of the Tiahuanacota, particularly their technique of wet sand molding, which is known for producing accurate and functional architectural components. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal of the pavilion but also ties it closely to local heritage and environmental sustainability.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the pavilion is designed to promote movement and interaction. It includes several areas such as workshops, galleries, a coffee shop, and restrooms, all arranged to encourage social gatherings and learning activities. Ample natural light fills the spaces, creating an open and welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration and participation from visitors.

Architectural Detail

Notable elements of the design include the presence of megaliths and mud walls, which remain integrated into the site, blending with the landscape. This connection between the built environment and its historical roots reflects an intention to create continuity between past and present. The pavilion’s design resonates with the beauty of its natural surroundings, fostering a quiet space for reflection on the cultural legacy it represents.

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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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