Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Reclaimed Wood Pavilion With Integrated Insect Habitats Amidst Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Ana Tevzadze, Nodar Dekanosidze
Reclaimed Wood Pavilion With Integrated Insect Habitats Amidst Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Integrated insect habitats formed within a reclaimed wood pavilion create a sustainable environment that fosters biodiversity, offering a space for reflection and education on the importance of pollinators.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed wood panels from local sources enhance sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
02
Housing specific insect hotels supports diverse pollinator species directly on-site.
03
A cylindrical shape facilitates wind resistance while blending with natural surroundings.
04
Wildflower plantings surrounding the pavilion attract and sustain local pollinators.
05
Integrated natural light features minimize energy consumption and enhance visitor experience.
Vivum Sanctum is an architectural project designed to serve as a pavilion and sanctuary specifically for pollinators, located in Val di Funes, Trentino. This structure acknowledges the vital role of insects, particularly bees, in maintaining ecological balance and highlights human responsibility towards environmental preservation. The design integrates both form and function, promoting biodiversity while allowing visitors to engage with nature.

Sustainable materiality is a key feature of Vivum Sanctum. The pavilion’s façade consists of 90 reclaimed wooden panels, emphasizing a sustainable approach to construction. These panels are complemented by a secondary metal structure made from thin-diameter steel, which provides necessary structural integrity while facilitating the creation of insect habitats. The central steel column, robust yet elegantly designed, anchors the pavilion, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Insect habitats are ingeniously integrated into the architecture, featuring materials such as bamboo sticks, hollow logs, and dried grasses. This diverse range of resources supports various insect species, thereby enhancing the habitat's biodiversity. Additionally, wildflower plantings around the structure attract pollinators, creating an environment conducive to ecological interactions.

Vivum Sanctum’s architectural design presents unique organizational strategies. The floor plan is arranged around a central circular space that symbolizes ecological cycles and interconnectedness. Openings in the facade allow for ample natural light, enhancing the sensory experience for visitors while minimizing energy use. The organic, cylindrical shape of the pavilion complements its ecological purpose, facilitating a harmonious connection between structure and environment.

The project stands apart from other architectural endeavors through its dual functionality as both a habitat and an educational tool. It addresses the pressing issue of pollinator decline directly, offering a space not only for fauna but also for human reflection on ecological stewardship. The commitment to sustainability, innovative use of materials, and integration of nature position Vivum Sanctum as a noteworthy example of modern architecture responding to environmental challenges.

For further insights into this project, consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a deeper understanding of its detailed execution and architectural ideas.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy