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Round Columns and Zig-Zag Roof in a Forest Food Court

Author:
Ivana Brzovic
Round Columns and Zig-Zag Roof in a Forest Food Court

Project in-detail

With a zig-zag roof that promotes natural light and round columns that echo the nearby trees, the design creates a unique food court experience seamlessly integrated into the forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof design features a zig-zag pattern that enhances natural light while promoting water drainage.
02
Round columns reflect natural tree forms, establishing a visual connection with the forest.
03
The layout strategically incorporates both high and low columns for adaptable space usage.
04
A light wooden skeleton forms the enclosure, maintaining transparency and openness.
05
MDF plates connect to the roof design, reinforcing structural integrity while minimizing visual clutter.

The design presents a food court concept that integrates closely with a forest environment. Located among trees, the layout emphasizes a strong connection between the built elements and nature, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. The architecture draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, creating an engaging relationship that invites exploration.

Structural Framework

The structural framework utilizes both high and low columns. This arrangement establishes a clear hierarchy that helps organize the space. High columns are strategically placed in the inner area, while lower columns surround them, resulting in an inviting and open atmosphere. This design allows for flexible use of the space and maintains clear sightlines, encouraging movement and interaction among guests.

Roof Design

The roof features a zig-zag design, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. It provides necessary orientation and lets natural light filter in while also accounting for proper water drainage through intentionally designed gaps. This thoughtful design approach not only enhances the visual impact but also addresses practical considerations related to the environment, contributing to the overall cohesion of the space.

Material Selection

Materials chosen for the project support its relationship with the surroundings. Round columns or tree trunks serve as structural supports, while a light wood skeleton forms the enclosure. MDF plates are used to connect the roof, and aluminum elements are incorporated in the enclosure design. Each material was selected to blend harmoniously with the forest backdrop while meeting the practical needs of the food court.

Design Experience

The food court experience is defined by its connection to nature and the surrounding forest. Visitors can engage with a vibrant atmosphere that highlights both food and the environment. The varied column heights and playful roof design encourage exploration and interaction, creating a lively space. As guests move through the food court, they find themselves in a setting that constantly shifts in its visual and sensory elements, reinforcing the bond between the architecture and the forest.

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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

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competition now

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