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Repurposed Steel Sheets and Reclaimed Wood Create a Sustainable Learning Hub Surrounded by Nature

Authors:
Tine Brandstrup, Jesper Nielsen
Repurposed Steel Sheets and Reclaimed Wood Create a Sustainable Learning Hub Surrounded by Nature

Project in-detail

Repurposed steel sheets and reclaimed wood seamlessly blend to form an educational hub that fosters community engagement and showcases sustainable practices within a vibrant natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes reclaimed wood from local structures to minimize resource waste.
02
Incorporates a living green roof to enhance biodiversity and insulation.
03
Features transparent glass walls that foster interaction with the surrounding landscape.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting systems to support sustainable operations.
05
Includes flexible workshop spaces designed for hands-on community engagement.
The CirculariTea project represents a thoughtful integration of sustainable architecture with the principles of a circular economy, specifically tailored towards the context of tea production and education. Situated in an ecological setting where environmental responsibility is critical, the project aims to redefine typical structures associated with tea while promoting an understanding of sustainable practices. The design not only addresses the functional requirements of a tea facility but also serves as an immersive educational space, engaging visitors with innovative and eco-conscious methodologies.

From an architectural standpoint, the project explores the relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The design incorporates elements that facilitate a dialogue between nature and structure, utilizing natural materials that reflect the local landscape. The approach emphasizes the importance of resource efficiency through the use of reclaimed materials, such as wood, stone, and steel, which are integral to the building’s identity. This focus on sustainability extends to the architecture itself, as the project employs large glass panels that allow for abundant natural light, fostering a sense of openness while harmoniously connecting the interior and exterior spaces.

The functionality of the CirculariTea project is multifaceted. It serves not only as a production facility for tea but also as a learning hub where community members and visitors can engage in hands-on workshops and educational sessions. This integration of community and learning is central to the design. The layout includes spaces for communal gatherings, workshops that encourage participation, and guest accommodations that provide an immersive experience in sustainable living. The culinary spaces effectively showcase the commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, reinforcing the project’s operational ethos.

Several important design details contribute to the project’s overall effectiveness in promoting sustainability. The incorporation of living green roofs and water features highlights the designer's intention to create a micro-ecosystem that nurtures biodiversity. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal of the facility but also serve functional purposes, such as rainwater harvesting and insulation. The use of green walls further supports this concept, allowing for a seamless blend of structure and nature, designed to invite plant growth and foster a rich ecological environment.

Unique design approaches are evident in how the CirculariTea project leverages materials and forms. The combination of reclaimed wood with contemporary glass and steel demonstrates a commitment to resourcefulness while creating a visual contrast that attracts attention. The design exemplifies a modern architectural vocabulary while remaining rooted in traditional methodologies. The careful selection of materials, including repurposed steel from previous infrastructure, contributes to the overall narrative of sustainability. Innovative structural elements, such as the wave-like ceilings formed from steel sheets, reflect a creative response to material reuse, transforming potential waste into artwork.

The CirculariTea project ultimately represents a progressive vision for how architecture can harmonize with ecological principles. It serves as a case study in effective design that prioritizes sustainability while fostering community engagement and education. By engaging with this project, readers are encouraged to explore elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas further, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how this project successfully marries function and form within the framework of sustainable architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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