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Mortise and Tenon Structure Facilitating Community Participation in Modular Food Spaces

Author:
Xian Zhang
Mortise and Tenon Structure Facilitating Community Participation in Modular Food Spaces
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Employing traditional mortise and tenon joinery without adhesives or metal fasteners, the design fosters community participation through modular assembly for varied functions, including food courts and gathering spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional mortise and tenon joinery for structural integrity without adhesives.
02
Designed for modular assembly by community participants, enhancing engagement.
03
Flexible layout accommodates various functions, including food courts and rest areas.
04
Incorporates waterproof fabric for adaptable weather protection.
05
Disassembly allows for reuse, with components serving as souvenirs for participants.

The project utilizes traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joinery, set in an engaging festival atmosphere. It combines modular design and community involvement to create flexible spaces for various functions, including food courts, rest areas, and stages. By incorporating this time-honored technique, it emphasizes both craftsmanship and user interaction, allowing festival-goers to actively participate in the building process.

Construction Technique

At the heart of the design lies the mortise and tenon connection method. This approach relies on the fit between concave and convex parts to create a sturdy structure. The design does not use adhesives or metal fasteners, depending solely on wood to maintain stability. The use of this traditional technique highlights its cultural significance while meeting modern needs efficiently.

Modularity and Flexibility

The structure is built around a modular system with identical units that can be arranged in various configurations. This adaptability offers the possibility of creating diverse spaces tailored to different activities. For instance, in the food court, bar counters and partition walls help streamline food preparation and dining experiences. This flexibility not only enhances functionality but also allows the space to evolve for different contexts and events.

Community Engagement

Community participation is a central element of the design. Festival attendees are encouraged to join in the assembly of the structure, guided by simple, clear instructions. This hands-on involvement transforms observers into active participants, fostering a sense of ownership over the environment. As individuals engage in the construction, they build a connection with the space and with each other.

Dynamic Design Elements

The upper part of the structure features a waterproof fabric layer that provides protection during adverse weather conditions. This functional aspect can be installed temporarily, ensuring comfort and usability regardless of the environment. The design allows for disassembly and reuse of components, reinforcing a commitment to sustainability. Participants can take home pieces as memories, creating a tangible link to their experience.

The blend of traditional techniques and contemporary needs shapes a unique narrative in architecture. Each component assembled not only serves a functional purpose but also represents shared experiences, turning a simple structure into a meaningful space for community interaction and collective memory.

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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.

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