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Phosphorescent Wood Adhesive Highlights Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion In Harmony With The Maine Woods

Author:
Ashley Lepre
Phosphorescent Wood Adhesive Highlights Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion In Harmony With The Maine Woods

Project in-detail

Illuminated by phosphorescent wood adhesive, a pavilion crafted from cross-laminated timber seamlessly integrates into the Maine woods, serving as a unique educational space that fosters community engagement and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes phosphorescent wood adhesive to create a gentle glow at night, enhancing visibility and atmosphere.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and enhanced weather resistance.
03
Features a looped form that encourages movement and interaction within the space.
04
Constructed using cross-laminated timber, promoting sustainability and efficient use of resources.
05
Designed to adapt to seasonal changes, maintaining a dynamic relationship with its natural surroundings.
The Pare Pavilion represents a thoughtful intersection of architecture, nature, and human experience, located in the serene woods of Maine. This architectural project is designed to serve as a multifunctional space that invites visitors to engage with the surrounding environment while embracing educational and community-focused activities. The pavilion eschews traditional notions of structures by embodying a design that is both functional and conceptually rich, promoting dialogue about sustainability and craftsmanship.

At its core, the Pare Pavilion showcases a deep respect for the natural elements that envelop it. Utilizing cross-laminated timber, the structure reflects sustainability not only in materials but also in form, demonstrating how architecture can harmonize with its context. The materiality is significant; each wooden component is carefully chosen to emphasize a connection to nature. The use of phosphorescent wood adhesives adds an intriguing layer to the design, allowing the pavilion to softly light up during the night, thereby enhancing its presence in the dark forest.

The pavilion's architectural approach incorporates unique loops and pathways that draw visitors in, creating an inviting atmosphere. This spatial arrangement is intended to facilitate movement and interaction, encouraging people to explore both the interior and the landscape surrounding the structure. As one moves through the pavilion, the gentle curves and organic shapes mimic the fluidity found in nature, allowing for a seamless transition between built space and natural setting.

One of the central functions of the Pare Pavilion is education. The design serves as a platform for learning, presenting opportunities for interaction with both the architecture itself and the natural world. Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship evident in the unique joinery techniques, which blend historical woodworking methods with modern design principles. This informs a discussion on sustainable practices and the importance of ecological awareness, inviting users to consider their relationship with the environment.

Additionally, the pavilion is designed as a communal hub, promoting gatherings that foster connection and dialogue. Its spacious interiors can accommodate a range of activities, from small workshops to larger meetings, allowing it to serve diverse functions within the community. The versatility of the space ensures its continued relevance, capable of adapting to various needs while remaining anchored in its mission of facilitating interaction among people and nature.

The unique design approaches evident in the Pare Pavilion emerge from a commitment to environmental integration. As seasons shift, the structure is intended to interact with changing natural conditions, from leaf fall to snow cover, further blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. This adaptability underscores the core idea that architecture need not be a rigid entity; rather, it can be a responsive and evolving part of the landscape. The thoughtful material selection, combined with an emphasis on traditional techniques, adds to the narrative of the pavilion as not only a building but a place of connection, learning, and reflection.

For those interested in exploring the intricate details of the Pare Pavilion, a closer look at architectural plans, sections, and designs will reveal how this project manifests its core ideals. By delving into these architectural ideas, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the design principles that have shaped the pavilion and appreciate the thoughtful considerations that inform its existence in the tranquil Maine woods. It is an invitation to further engage with the project, encouraging visitors to contemplate the role of architecture in fostering a harmonious relationship with nature.
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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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