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Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Dialogue in a Contemplative Space

Authors:
Virginia Sellari, Nicolò Croce, Riccardo Bovo, Matteo Bulgarelli
Reflective Surfaces Enhancing Dialogue in a Contemplative Space

Project in-detail

Mirrored surfaces create a dynamic interplay of light and identity in a space dedicated to contemplation and community dialogue.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective surfaces enhance user interaction and self-awareness.
02
The design incorporates a dynamic A-frame structure.
03
Spatial arrangements encourage community engagement.
04
Natural light is optimized to create evolving patterns.
05
Philosophical themes are interwoven into the user experience.

The Pavilion of Humanity serves as a space for reflection on existence and identity. It invites visitors to engage with their own thoughts and experiences, encouraging a deeper understanding of themselves and their connections to others. Designed to be both functional and contemplative, the Pavilion offers a unique environment that fosters dialogue and introspection.

Reflective Surfaces

Mirrors are a key feature of the Pavilion. They create an engaging atmosphere where visitors can see themselves and each other. This design choice encourages individuals to reflect on their identities and relationships. The interplay of light and reflection enhances the experience, making visitors not just observers but active participants in their exploration.

Philosophical Engagement

The Pavilion prompts significant questions about human existence. Its design encourages contemplation, urging visitors to think about what it means to be human. These philosophical themes are woven into the structure, making it a place for personal inquiry. As guests navigate the space, they are invited to consider their own lives and the lives of others, deepening their understanding of community and connection.

Spatial Dynamics

The interior layout of the Pavilion promotes interaction and conversation. Open spaces allow for movement and exchange among visitors. This design creates a sense of equilibrium, akin to a stage where everyone has a role. Each person's presence contributes to the collective experience. By encouraging engagement, the Pavilion fosters a sense of belonging among its users.

Natural Light and Transparency

Natural light is a vital element in the Pavilion. Large openings direct sunlight into the interior, casting shifting patterns of light throughout the day. This natural illumination adds layers to the reflective surfaces, enhancing the overall atmosphere and inviting further contemplation. The changing light also helps create a sense of time, reminding visitors that their own experiences are part of a larger continuum.

The Pavilion of Humanity stands as an exploration of identity and self-awareness. Through its thoughtful design and reflective features, it creates a space where individual experiences merge into a shared journey of discovery.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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