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Pan Flute Elements Crafted from Natural Materials in a Community-Focused Space

Author:
Fatima Alkwafi
Pan Flute Elements Crafted from Natural Materials in a Community-Focused Space

Project in-detail

Crafted with vertical elements resembling pan flutes and utilizing sustainable materials like charred wood and concrete, the design integrates harmoniously into its natural surroundings while serving as a vibrant community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with sound-responsive vertical elements that mimic pan flutes, enhancing auditory interaction.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features sustainable cross-laminated timber panels, reducing carbon footprint during construction.
04
Design integrates seamlessly with scenic views of the Bio Slough and Silver Lake.
05
Accessibility ramps connect staggered levels, promoting inclusivity for all visitors.

### Overview and Context
Located in South Dakota, the architectural design engages with the region's natural ecosystems, notably the Bio Slough and Silver Lake. The intent is to harmonize architecture with musical concepts, reflecting a design philosophy that prioritizes the integration of form, function, and environmental context. This approach fosters a relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, encouraging recreational use and appreciation of the area’s ecological richness.

### Spatial Configuration
The design consists of three vertically staggered structures that establish a dynamic interplay with their environment. By varying in height and angle, these elements create multiple viewing platforms, enhancing visitors' experience of the natural topography. The configuration promotes interaction with the landscape, illustrated through the metaphor of 'harmonies' that echo in both the architectural form and spatial arrangement.

### Material Application
Natural materials have been selected to establish a connection with the ecosystem. Wood is primarily used for structural columns, offering warmth and resilience, while concrete provides foundational strength and stability. The careful incorporation of glass facilitates natural light infiltration and unobstructed views, further enhancing the experience of the surrounding landscape.

### Accessibility and Inclusivity
The design includes a spiraling ramp that links the three main elements, ensuring accessibility for all visitors, including those with disabilities. This focus on inclusive design reflects a commitment to community engagement, enabling a broader audience to experience and interact with the structure.

### Sensory Interaction
The architecture incorporates unique elements reminiscent of musical instruments, such as vertical columns designed to produce sound when engaged. This feature creates a multi-sensory experience, particularly for visually impaired visitors, linking auditory sensations with the architectural space. The design invites exploration through sound, contributing to a richer appreciation of both the acoustics and the physical environment.

### Aesthetic Considerations
Characterized by smooth lines and open spaces, the overall aesthetic promotes tranquility. Vertical elements create a rhythmic visual pattern, reflecting organic forms found in the natural landscape. The architectural footprint is carefully placed to minimize disruption to existing ecological features, reinforcing the connection between the structure and its setting.

### Landscape Integration
The structure is designed to harmonize with the existing grasslands and bodies of water, enhancing the emotional and visual impact of the built environment. By framing significant landscape views, the design enhances visitors' immersion in the scenic qualities of the site while promoting a cohesive relationship between nature and architecture.

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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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