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Plaited Hazelnut Twigs and Clay Form a Butterfly-Inspired Pavilion in the Desert

Authors:
Marc Schulte, Simone Aktan, Elisa Maschin, Sven Schwenke
Plaited Hazelnut Twigs and Clay Form a Butterfly-Inspired Pavilion in the Desert
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Plaited hazelnut twigs and a clay mix create a butterfly-inspired structure that blends harmoniously with the Atacama Desert, serving as a functional pavilion for reflection and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Core structure made from plaited hazelnut twigs for structural integrity.
02
Encased in a mixture of clay and sand-lime brick for durability.
03
Design mimics the spread wings of a butterfly, enhancing connection to nature.
04
Symmetrical layout with equal-sized spaces promotes balance and light.
05
Located in the Atacama Desert, addressing extreme environmental conditions.

The Monarch is an architectural pavilion located in the Atacama Desert, designed to reflect the beauty of a butterfly. It serves both as a space for contemplation and a functional shelter. The design draws inspiration from the natural world, particularly the butterfly’s ability to transform and adapt. This project aims to create a strong connection between the built environment and the surrounding desert landscape, resulting in a structure that integrates seamlessly with its setting.

Form and Layout

The overall shape of The Monarch mimics the spread of butterfly wings. It features two symmetrical spaces, each measuring 49.8 square meters. This configuration creates a balanced and visually appealing structure, allowing for easy movement throughout the interior. Ample natural light and ventilation contribute to the comfort of the occupants while fostering a strong sense of connection with the vast desert surroundings.

Construction Methodology

The pavilion employs a monolithic construction system. The core is made of plaited hazelnut twigs, encased in a mixture of clay and sand-lime brick. These locally sourced materials emphasize sustainability and environmental awareness. The robust core provides stability, while the outer layer protects the structure from the harsh desert climate. This thoughtful choice of materials ensures the building remains durable while maintaining a visual link to the natural elements.

Ecological Considerations

The Monarch reflects important ecological themes through its design and location. The butterfly symbolizes a commitment to biodiversity and conservation. The pavilion is more than just a shelter; it encourages appreciation for the delicate ecosystems that exist in the area. The structure promotes awareness of nature, reminding visitors of the interconnectedness between humans and the environment.

The outer layer is crafted to shield against the extreme elements of the desert. It offers protection while mirroring the flowing lines of the butterfly's wings. This careful attention to detail highlights the balance between function and design, capturing the spirit of the environment around it.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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