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Rhombicuboctahedron Joints and Passive Cooling in a Nature-Focused Visitor Center

Authors:
Nam Vu, Saif Aletriby
Rhombicuboctahedron Joints and Passive Cooling in a Nature-Focused Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Constructed with rhombicuboctahedron joints for structural integrity and designed for passive cooling, the center facilitates visitor engagement with the surrounding nature while prioritizing ecological conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a unique rhombicuboctahedron joint system for enhanced stability.
02
Integrates a wind tower designed to optimize natural ventilation and cooling.
03
Maintains a safety distance of 3.2 meters from native species for ecological protection.
04
Features a boardwalk that connects visitors while minimizing environmental disruption.
05
Emphasizes a structural grid that supports the growth of the local ecosystem.

The design combines a careful connection between built form and nature. Located in an ecologically sensitive reserve, the center serves as a place for visitors to engage with the landscape. The overall concept revolves around a journey from the ground to the sky, inviting exploration while prioritizing environmental awareness and preservation.

Structural Framework

The structure employs a unique grid system that supports the local ecosystem's development. At its core is the Mashrabiya system, likened to a puzzle that enhances light management and spatial experience. The use of a rhombicuboctahedron joint enables various connections in three-dimensional space, ensuring both strength and adaptability in design.

Spatial Organization

Access is provided through a boardwalk that invites visitors into the building. The ground floor features an entrance and a gallery, introducing visitors to the local environment. On the first floor, an additional exhibition area and an observatory terrace offer expansive views of the landscape. On the second floor, a safety distance of 3.2 meters is maintained between visitors and native species, reinforcing the importance of conservation in the design.

Construction Methodology

Using a post-and-beam approach, construction connects wooden elements with a slide linkage system, avoiding the need for glue or nails. This approach highlights a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern building techniques. The boardwalk mimics this structural integrity, creating an inviting outdoor experience that aligns with the building's aesthetic language.

Environmental Integration

A key feature is the wind tower, known as "Baragil," designed to provide passive cooling and enhance air flow. Its bracing system comprises diagonal elements paired with a concrete core, ensuring the building's stability in varying conditions. Inside, a structural grid allows for multiple viewpoints while also shielding visitors from direct sunlight, promoting comfort and connection to the natural surroundings.

Attention to detail in the design reflects a commitment to harmonizing architecture with ecology. The approach encourages close engagement with the environment while maintaining a strong focus on functional needs and visitor comfort.

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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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