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Monolithic Core with Geomorphic Elements in a Community Pavilion

Authors:
Mathew Binda, Keegan Maybery
Monolithic Core with Geomorphic Elements in a Community Pavilion

Project in-detail

A central monolithic core integrates geomorphic elements to create an engaging public pavilion that fosters community interaction and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central monolithic core defines the architectural theme and supports structural integrity.
02
Raised public plinth encourages multi-directional visitor movement and engagement.
03
Design incorporates seven ages of materials to illustrate human evolution and environmental interaction.
04
Dual dimensionality creates a visual and experiential connection between the pavilion and the sky.
05
Spaces are designated for reflection, meditation, and community performance, enhancing cultural interaction.

NOONES PAVILION is located in Kirstenbosch, Cape Town, RSA. It functions as a cultural space that highlights the connection between humanity and nature. The design aims to represent a shared human experience, focusing on the significance of our relationship with the environment. It also serves as a point of interest that could resonate with extraterrestrial life.

Central Monolithic Core

A central monolithic core stands at the heart of the structure. This feature serves as both a key support element and an important concept in the design. It is organized into seven different aspects of materials, which reflect how human beings have evolved and learned to interact with their surroundings. This aspect emphasizes the connection between manipulation of materials and the progression of sentient life, merging natural forms with constructed ones.

Public Plinth

The design includes a raised public plinth that extends from the natural earth. This element invites people to approach the space and encourages movement from various directions. It creates an engaging pathway for visitors, allowing them to explore both the pavilion and its context. The interaction between the plinth and the structure cultivates a relationship between the built environment and the natural landscape.

Diverse Spatial Program

A variety of spaces are included, designed for different purposes. These areas consist of a gallery and exhibition space, rooms for reflection and conservation, and places for meditation and performance. The diverse selection of spaces reinforces the pavilion’s importance as a community hub. Each area allows for interactions that foster discussions and connections among people.

The architectural design showcases a dual dimensionality, where the upper section faces the sky while the outer layer provides a touchable surface for visitors. This relationship supports natural light entering the interior, creating a link to the outside world. It allows the pavilion to be a thoughtful space grounded in the essence of nature.

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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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