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Responsive Petal Structure with Bioluminescent Algae and Graphene Integration for Urban Meditation

Author:
Richelle Sibolboro
Responsive Petal Structure with Bioluminescent Algae and Graphene Integration for Urban Meditation

Project in-detail

A responsive structure with undulating petals made from conductive graphene and illuminated by bioluminescent algae creates an interactive sanctuary for meditation amidst Tokyo’s urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interactive petals respond to sound and movement, creating a dynamic user experience.
02
Constructed with a conductive graphene network that converts auditory stimuli into kinetic energy.
03
Incorporates bioluminescent algae that illuminate the space based on visitor interactions.
04
Designed as an organic oasis, contrasting sharply with Tokyo's urban landscape.
05
Promotes active meditation, encouraging emotional expression and self-reflection.

Unfurl presents an engaging study of interaction in an urban setting. Located in Tokyo, a city with a high population density, the design seeks to address the stress and anxiety faced by many residents. It aims to create a place for active meditation, offering a welcoming space to foster emotional release and personal reflection amidst the busy city life.

Floral Inspiration

The structure is designed with a floral motif, curling inward to create an atmosphere of calm and invitation. This choice is both striking and functional, inviting people to engage with the space. As visitors enter, they are greeted by an open, wing-like entrance that serves as an inviting gesture. The design is interactive, responding to the movements and sounds of individuals, creating a dynamic experience.

Dynamic Interaction

A key feature of Unfurl is its ability to react to human activity. The petals of the structure respond to sound waves produced by visitors. This interaction allows auditory stimuli to be transformed into kinetic energy, highlighting the relationship between users and their environment. The design encourages expressions like whispering, singing, and dancing, allowing visitors to explore their feelings freely.

Bioluminescence and Sensory Experience

Unfurl also incorporates bioluminescent algae within its petals, which respond to movement. This innovation not only provides illumination but connects the architectural space with natural elements. The glowing algae enhance the sensory experience, rewarding users visually as they engage with the space in unique ways.

Transformative Experience

From the outside, Unfurl captures the attention of passersby as they witness the petals moving in response to visitors. This movement creates a visual spectacle that extends beyond its physical function. It emphasizes the intent of Unfurl as a communal space where connections can be made and moments shared.

As individuals interact with the structure, the petals unfold and retract, reflecting a cycle of growth and retreat. This rhythmic movement echoes the natural processes, inviting users to experience a sense of peace and transformation during their time within.

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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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