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Responsive Facade and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Dynamic Community Hub

Authors:
Ruitao Wang, Zhi Liu, Mingxiu Wang, Ruiyang Chen
Responsive Facade and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Dynamic Community Hub

Project in-detail

Employing a responsive facade of triple-glazed glass and the warmth of cross-laminated timber, the design fosters community interaction while serving as a versatile cultural center in San Francisco.
5 key facts about this project
01
The responsive facade adjusts to sunlight, enhancing energy efficiency throughout the day.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to create an environmentally sustainable structural system.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
The bent A-frame design facilitates natural ventilation and maximizes interior space.
05
Flexible interior spaces cater to a wide range of community activities and events.
The architectural design of the Green Pavilion in San Francisco stands as a thoughtful integration of community needs and environmental consciousness. Nestled within the vibrant urban fabric, this project represents a refreshing approach to public architecture, emphasizing sustainability while fostering cultural interactions. The pavilion functions as a multi-purpose cultural center, designed to host a variety of community activities such as art exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs. Its primary objective is to engage local residents, encouraging participation in arts and culture while creating a welcoming space for social gatherings.

The architectural design reflects a deep understanding of the relationship between built environments and nature. The structure features a flowing roofline that mimics the natural topography of its surroundings, creating a harmonious connection between the urban and the natural landscape. Designed with reinforced concrete, the building is not only robust and durable but also discreetly merges with the elements of the site, offering a sense of permanence and stability. This choice of material is complemented by the use of triple-glazed glass, which allows for abundant natural light to filter into the interior spaces while contributing to energy efficiency. The glass façade encourages occupants to connect with the external environment, providing panoramic views of nearby parks and fostering a sense of openness.

Internally, the pavilion is characterized by an adaptable spatial configuration, enabling the flexibility to accommodate various events and community functions. The layout promotes an inclusive atmosphere, allowing for easy interaction among diverse groups of people. Sustainable timber is utilized for the interior finishes, introducing a warmth that further invites users to engage with the space. The integration of natural materials extends to the external cladding, reinforcing the pavilion's commitment to ecological considerations and a more biophilic design approach.

Unique to the Green Pavilion is its responsive façade design, an innovative feature that adjusts according to external sunlight levels. This not only enhances the comfort of occupants but also minimizes energy consumption throughout the day. The building exemplifies a modern architecture approach, where design strategies prioritize not just aesthetics but also the performance and well-being of its users.

Furthermore, the pavilion illustrates a commitment to community principles through its socially interactive spaces, encouraging gatherings and fostering a vibrant local culture. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces allows for both private reflection and communal interaction, catering to a wide range of community events and cultural programs.

The design of the Green Pavilion is a significant step toward redefining public architecture in urban settings by merging functionality with ecological responsibility. This project embodies a forward-thinking mindset that embraces sustainable practices while enhancing community connectivity. Those interested in learning more about the architectural plans, designs, and sections of this innovative project are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation available. By doing so, they can gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas and design processes that have shaped this noteworthy addition to San Francisco's urban landscape.
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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
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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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