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Reflective Glass and Heavy Concrete Pavilion Nestled Within Bolivia's Ethereal Salt Flat Environment

Author:
Chongsoo Jeon
Reflective Glass and Heavy Concrete Pavilion Nestled Within Bolivia's Ethereal Salt Flat Environment

Project in-detail

Set within the vastness of Bolivia's salt flats, the pavilion's dynamic interplay of heavy concrete and expansive glass creates a contemplative space that invites visitors to reflect on humanity and nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion features a unique combination of heavy concrete and large glass surfaces, emphasizing transparency and light.
02
Strategically designed openings allow for unobstructed views of the surrounding Salar de Uyuni landscape, enhancing the visitor experience.
03
The structure's reflective qualities create a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural salt flat.
04
Multi-tiered levels provide distinct spaces for both individual contemplation and community gatherings.
05
Sustainably sourced materials emphasize ecological sensitivity while maintaining structural integrity.
The "Reflections" Pavilion of Humanity is an architectural project located in the stunning environment of Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia. This structure embodies a comprehensive representation of the intricate relationship between humanity, nature, and the passage of time. Designed with the intention of serving as a space for reflection and contemplation, the pavilion engages visitors not just physically, but emotionally and intellectually.

The pavilion’s function goes beyond mere utility; it serves as a cultural landmark, a place for community gatherings, exhibitions, and events that encourage dialogue about human experiences and history. Visitors are invited to engage with the space in multiple ways, promoting individual reflection as well as collective interaction.

Important elements of the design include its unique form and materiality, which work in tandem to create both an aesthetic appeal and a deeper conceptual meaning. The architecture prominently features heavy concrete as its primary structural element, providing a sense of solidity that anchors the pavilion within the vast expanse of the salt flat. This choice of material underscores a narrative of resilience and permanence amidst the shifting realities of human life.

In contrast, expansive sections of glass are integral to the pavilion’s design. These transparent walls invite natural light into the interior while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, effectively dissolving the boundaries between the built environment and the natural world. This transparency enhances the experience of reflection—both individually and collectively—allowing visitors to see themselves within the context of their surroundings.

The layout of the pavilion is thoughtfully organized into multiple levels, each serving distinct purposes that enhance visitor experience. Open, airy spaces foster a sense of community by encouraging gatherings and discussions, while quieter areas provide solitude for personal contemplation. This multi-tiered spatial organization not only facilitates movement but also offers diverse settings for engagement, enhancing the interactions between visitors and their environment.

The pavilion’s design approach is unique in its integration with the site, effectively utilizing the reflective qualities of the surrounding landscape. By allowing natural light to play a significant role in the interior spaces, the architecture captures changing atmospheric conditions throughout the day, creating a dynamic environment that evolves with the sun’s movement. This mirrored connection with the landscape symbolizes the pavilion's purpose of reflection—both in a literal sense and as a representation of human emotions and connections with nature.

Materials play a significant role in the architectural narrative of the pavilion. The combination of heavy materials like concrete with lighter elements such as glass reflects a duality that resonates with the project's central themes. This attention to materiality not only enhances the structural integrity of the building but also emphasizes the nuances of strength and fragility in the human experience.

The pavilion also aims to uphold sustainability principles through the strategic use of locally sourced materials, reinforcing the bond between the architecture and its environment. This commitment to sustainable design adds another layer of relevance, as it connects with contemporary discussions around ecological awareness and the preservation of cultural heritage in architecture.

For those interested in exploring further, a detailed examination of the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of the "Reflections" Pavilion of Humanity can provide deeper insights into its conceptual framework and innovative approaches. Engaging with the architectural ideas presented in this project can enhance understanding of how architecture can serve as a medium for social engagement, reflection, and community building within a unique environmental context. Readers are encouraged to discover all aspects of this inviting space and its contributions to architectural discourse.
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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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