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Plaited Hazelnut Twigs and Rammed Earth Blend Seamlessly in a Curvilinear Pavilion for Community Engagement

Authors:
Marc Schulte, Simone Aktan, Elisa Maschin, Sven Schwenke
Plaited Hazelnut Twigs and Rammed Earth Blend Seamlessly in a Curvilinear Pavilion for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a harmonious blend of plaited hazelnut twigs and rammed earth, the pavilion emerges as a curvilinear sanctuary, fostering community connections in the heart of the Atacama Desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's structure incorporates plaited hazelnut twigs, enhancing both flexibility and local material usage.
02
Rammed earth construction offers superior thermal performance, reducing energy needs in extreme desert conditions.
03
Curvilinear design reflects the shape of butterfly wings, fostering a connection with nature and the surrounding environment.
04
The integration of local stones supports sustainability while providing visual harmony with the desert landscape.
05
An open layout encourages community gatherings, promoting social interaction in a tranquil, inviting space.
The Monarch Pavilion represents a thoughtful approach to architectural design located within the Atacama Desert. This project exemplifies a seamless integration of structure and environment, mirroring the delicate aesthetics of a butterfly's wings while providing functional space for various activities. The design not only emphasizes beauty but also emphasizes sustainability and resilience in one of the planet's most extreme climates.

Architecturally, The Monarch Pavilion stands out due to its fluid form, which is inspired by the dynamic movements of nature. The pavilion's sweeping curves and expansive open spaces create an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and interaction. The overall design serves multiple functions, from providing shelter to facilitating gatherings, cultural activities, and quiet contemplation. This multifaceted approach ensures that the structure remains a versatile asset within the community.

The careful selection of materials is a key aspect of the project, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The core structure utilizes plaited hazelnut twigs, which lend lightweight strength and flexibility. This innovative approach counters potential environmental stresses while maintaining the necessary durability for desert conditions. Together with clay and sand-brick, these materials create a resilient composition capable of enduring the area's temperature variations and sandstorms.

The façade of the pavilion is especially noteworthy, designed to resemble the gentle, elegant curves of butterfly wings. This design not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the building but also helps to diffuse sunlight and protect the interior from harsh winds. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates a dynamic environment, encouraging users to engage with the space in diverse ways. The pavilion fosters a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, making it an ideal setting for reflection and socialization.

What distinguishes The Monarch Pavilion is its commitment to bridging architectural ideas with ecological consciousness. The design does not merely aim to stand out visually but also to resonate with its surroundings, promoting a narrative of sustainability and harmony with the landscape. The integration of rammed earth and locally gathered stones further enhances this relationship, grounding the project in its geographical context while reducing transportation-related environmental impact.

In embracing unique construction methods and materials, The Monarch Pavilion underscores the importance of adaptability in architecture. The structure's design acknowledges the harsh elements of the desert while creating a safe, inviting retreat for its users. This deep understanding of place and function demonstrates a comprehensive approach to global architectural challenges, making the pavilion a valuable case study in contemporary architectural practice.

For those interested in learning more about The Monarch Pavilion, a comprehensive examination of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas is encouraged. The various aspects of this project invite further exploration and understanding of architecture that is both innovative and sensitive to its environment, establishing a model for future developments in similarly challenging contexts.
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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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