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Sinuous Pavilion That Embraces Forest Interactions

Author:
Octavio Hernandez
Sinuous Pavilion That Embraces Forest Interactions

Project in-detail

The sinuous form of the pavilion integrates seamlessly with the surrounding forest, providing elevated platforms for visitor engagement and a multifunctional center for exploration and conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sinuous form enhances natural flow between indoors and outdoors.
02
Elevated platforms provide unique observation points of the forest.
03
Extensive glazing integrates natural light into visitor spaces.
04
Pathways connect the pavilion directly to the surrounding bogs.
05
Design promotes active visitor engagement with the ecological landscape.

The pavilion design creates a connection between architecture and an existing forest landscape, enhancing visitor interaction with nature. Located just outside the Great Kemeri Bog, this structure functions as a Visitor Center, housing a coffee shop, visitor information center, exhibition hall, and restrooms. The design concept centers on offering a flexible space that encourages exploration while fostering appreciation for the natural surroundings.

Design Functionality

Organized into two distinct levels, the pavilion dedicates the ground level to essential visitor services. Its flowing, sinuous form allows for a natural progression between indoor and outdoor areas. Pathways lead from the structure toward the bogs and forest, enhancing accessibility and promoting movement. This spatial configuration supports a lively experience for guests while maintaining a connection with the environment.

Rooftop Experience

The upper level of the pavilion features outdoor spaces designed for activities such as camping and relaxation. This elevated area provides open platforms that allow visitors to observe the natural scenery from above. It not only extends the architectural space but also serves as a place for individuals to engage with the beauty of the forest, enriching their time spent in the area.

Material and Design Details

While specific materials are not mentioned in the presentation, the pavilion features a façade with large glass panels that facilitate floor-to-ceiling views, creating a strong link between the interior and the forest. This design choice invites natural light into the space, contributing to an open and welcoming atmosphere. Areas of the roof are designed to serve dual purposes, providing both structural support and light.

The design emphasizes the importance of relationships between the building and its natural surroundings. It encourages multiple levels of interaction with nature, allowing visitors to navigate through, under, and above the pavilion. Key features are created to maintain a continuous bond with the forest, offering perspectives that deepen the appreciation of local ecology. The overall experience is shaped by the deliberate integration of the structure into its environment, allowing nature to remain a focal point for visitors.

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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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