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Petal Mechanism and Aluminum Foam Create Tranquil Urban Retreat

Authors:
Silu Xiang, Xibo Wang, Yu Wang, Xixiang Zeng
Petal Mechanism and Aluminum Foam Create Tranquil Urban Retreat

Project in-detail

The use of a petal mechanism and aluminum foam crafts an adaptable structure that offers a serene retreat in urban environments, providing a space for meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interactive petal mechanism allows users to customize their view.
02
Aluminum foam construction provides lightweight strength and insulation.
03
Designed for diverse environments, from streets to parks.
04
Enhanced soundproofing materials create a quieter inner space.
05
Integrates mindfulness features to promote urban meditation.

The Urban Boundary project offers a practical response to the challenges faced by city dwellers. It is situated within various urban settings, including streets, parks, waterfronts, and forests. The aim is to create spaces that enhance mental well-being, fostering a sense of peace and mindfulness. By introducing the idea of "selective vision," the design allows users to interact with their environment uniquely, catering to their specific needs at any given moment.

Design Adaptability

Adaptability is a key characteristic of the Urban Boundary. The structure is designed to fit seamlessly into diverse environments. In bustling streets, it can block views, allowing for privacy and a sense of retreat from the external noise. When placed in a park setting, the design can open up slightly, offering users a glimpse of the natural surroundings and inviting them to relax in a greener space. This adaptability ensures that users can enjoy a personalized experience, regardless of the location.

Interactive Meditative Spaces

The emphasis on meditation is central to the design. The structure functions as a space for quiet reflection, encouraging individuals to connect with nature. In a world where urban living can be hectic, the Urban Boundary provides a much-needed retreat for contemplation. The thoughtful arrangement of the space supports both physical comfort and mental clarity, helping users unwind and engage in mindful practices.

User-Centric Design Mechanism

At the heart of the Urban Boundary is an innovative petal mechanism. Each "petal" can slide open, allowing users to choose their field of view. This feature gives individuals control over their experience, enabling them to adjust the openings as desired. The flexibility of this design not only personalizes the interaction but also enhances user engagement, making the space feel responsive to personal needs and feelings.

Material Considerations

The project mentions the use of aluminum foam and soundproofing materials. Aluminum foam is selected for its light weight and strength, contributing to the structure's stability without excessive bulk. The inclusion of soundproofing materials helps create a quieter inner environment, shielding users from the noise of the outside world. These careful material choices work together to form an inviting and serene space for urban residents.

Warm light filters through the openings when the petals are adjusted, casting gentle patterns inside. This simple detail enhances the tranquil atmosphere, offering a soft connection between the occupants and their urban surroundings.

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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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