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Monumental Void and Textured Concrete Forms Foster Reflection in Nature-Inspired Space

Authors:
Andaç a. Soylu, Nazlı büşra Kocaoğlu
Monumental Void and Textured Concrete Forms Foster Reflection in Nature-Inspired Space

Project in-detail

The integration of monumental voids and textured concrete forms cultivates a space where visitors can engage with themes of memory and contemplation amid a natural landscape, serving as a sanctuary for reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates monumental voids that encourage contemplation and enhance the visitor experience.
02
Textured concrete surfaces create a unique tactile interaction and visual interest throughout the structure.
03
Natural vegetation is integrated into the design, softening the architecture's harsh lines and promoting biophilia.
04
A bent A-frame design establishes an organic silhouette that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their sustainability and structural efficiency, minimizing the carbon footprint.
This architectural project embodies a profound exploration of existential themes, particularly focusing on the concepts of life and death. The design is not merely a physical structure; it serves as a narrative device that invites contemplation and reflection. Located within a natural setting, the architecture harmonizes with its environment, creating a meditative space for visitors to engage with fundamental questions of existence.

The project represents a synthesis of nature and built form, where each element contributes to a cohesive dialogue on memory, absence, and presence. By incorporating various architectural materials, the design juxtaposes raw elements like concrete and steel with soft, organic vegetation. This careful selection underscores the cyclical relationship between life and death, illustrating how one concept feeds into the other. Concrete is utilized extensively throughout the structures, providing a sense of permanence and reliability, while steel contributes to the flexibility of design, enabling large open spaces that foster communal gathering and individual reflection.

The project serves multiple functions. It acts as both a contemplative space and a place for gatherings, prompting visitors to formulate their own interpretations of the themes presented. Open courtyards integrated into the design promote interaction among individuals while also offering reprieve for quiet introspection. The layout encourages movement through various thresholds, which are designed as gateways that symbolize the transition between life and death. Visitors are invited to engage authentically with these themes, elevating their experience beyond that of a typical architectural visit.

One of the unique design approaches within this project involves the incorporation of architectural voids, specifically designed to provoke thoughts on absence. This monumental void becomes a focal point for interpretation, allowing individuals to reflect on personal experiences of loss and existence. The relationship between solid and void in the spatial arrangement fosters a dialogue about the traces we leave behind and the memories that linger even after absence. Such considerations are crucial in creating a deeply personal and emotional connection to the space.

The architectural form demonstrates a keen awareness of verticality and mass, utilizing varied heights to create visual interest and a dynamic experience of the site. The intention behind the sculptural qualities of the buildings encourages exploration both visually and physically. Elements such as textured pathways provide a tactile experience that enhances the visitor's journey through the site, guiding them intuitively between different locations and experiences.

In terms of materiality, the selection of glass further enhances the philosophical dialogue present within the space. It creates opportunities for light to filter through, establishing connections between the interior and exterior environments. This transparency serves as a metaphor for clarity, enabling visitors to engage with the surroundings while introspectively contemplating the narratives of life and death presented within the architecture.

As visitors explore this project, they are invited to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that provide further insights into the meticulous thought process behind each detail. The interplay of materials, forms, and spaces showcases a thoughtful approach to architecture, one that values both the aesthetic and the emotional resonance of the environment. By examining these architectural ideas and concepts, readers can appreciate the profound journey this project offers, enriching their understanding of how architecture can engage with the complexities of human experience. For those interested, exploring the project's presentation will uncover more intricate details and inspirations that shape this compelling architectural narrative.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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