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Palm Leaf Canopy Over Prefabricated Concrete Structure for Emotional Reflection

Authors:
Roxanne Makountz, Julien Chalancon
Palm Leaf Canopy Over Prefabricated Concrete Structure for Emotional Reflection

Project in-detail

The interplay of palm leaf canopies with prefabricated concrete creates a thoughtful space for emotional reflection, inviting visitors to engage with their humanity in the heart of Dubai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflects traditional techniques with palm leaf canopies for sun protection.
02
Utilizes prefabricated concrete for rapid installation and environmental efficiency.
03
Emphasizes sensory engagement to foster emotional reflection.
04
Incorporates simple geometric forms for enhanced visitor accessibility.
05
Connects cultural heritage to modern design in Dubai’s urban setting.

The Pavilion of Humanity is situated in Dubai, designed to engage visitors in an exploration of personal and emotional experience against the backdrop of modern technological advancements. The pavilion addresses contemporary challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, creating a space that emphasizes the importance of human connection and reflection. Its design encourages individuals to delve into their emotions and engage in meaningful contemplation.

Geometric Simplicity

Simple geometric forms define the pavilion’s architecture, providing clarity and accessibility for visitors. This straightforward design approach allows individuals to engage with the space comfortably. It invites exploration and encourages interactions that lead to deeper reflection on what it means to be human.

Materiality and Construction

The building is primarily constructed with prefabricated concrete, a choice that focuses on efficiency and sustainability. This material not only ensures structural stability but also allows for quick assembly. Its design promotes effective thermal performance, addressing the local climate and showcasing a responsible architectural response to environmental concerns.

Cultural Heritage

An interesting feature of the pavilion is its outdoor area, which is covered with a braiding of palm leaves. This design element serves to protect visitors from direct sunlight and connects to the region's architectural history. Traditional techniques used in Dubai since its early days are acknowledged here, creating a bridge between past and present while enhancing the visitor's experience.

Incorporating Sensory Experience

The Pavilion of Humanity prioritizes sensory engagement and aims to prompt conversations about the role of technology in everyday life. By focusing on emotional connections and individual reflection, the design offers an environment where people can navigate the complexities of modern existence. As visitors walk through the space, they encounter various elements that encourage them to reconnect with their innate humanity and consider their place in a technologically driven world.

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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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