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Sound-Enhanced Dining Experience Crafted with Sustainable Timber and Charred Shingles in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Jiseob Lee, Hamza Jumaa, Sabrina La
Sound-Enhanced Dining Experience Crafted with Sustainable Timber and Charred Shingles in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Crafted from sustainable timber and charred shingles, this forest food court harmonizes sound and culinary arts to create a unique communal dining experience immersed in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles, providing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates optimal acoustics for sound integration.
04
Offers flexible seating arrangements that adapt to varying group sizes and activities.
05
Nestled within a forested area to create a tranquil dining experience immersed in nature.
The project, known as "The Sound of Food," is a thoughtfully designed forest food court located in Latvia, merging the experiences of culinary enjoyment and musical ambiance within a natural setting. This architectural endeavor represents a celebration of local food culture while simultaneously recognizing the significance of sound in enhancing the dining experience. The design aims to create a vibrant communal space that attracts visitors, inviting them to engage with both their surroundings and the diverse culinary offerings available.

Functionally, "The Sound of Food" serves as a gathering place where people can enjoy a variety of food options, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the region. The architectural layout is meticulously organized to accommodate food preparation and serving while facilitating social interaction among guests. The modular design allows for flexibility, enabling different configurations that cater to both large groups and smaller gatherings, ensuring that the space is approachable and welcoming.

One of the critical components of the project is its modular structure, composed of individual units designated for food service. This arrangement promotes an efficient flow of movement, as visitors can navigate easily between areas designated for queuing, dining, and enjoying musical performances. The roof structure enhances the spatial experience by incorporating generous overhangs that provide natural light and seamlessly connect the interior and exterior, reinforcing the project's commitment to creating a harmonious interaction with the forest.

The materiality of the food court plays a vital role in defining the overall atmosphere of the space. Sustainability is a primary concern, leading to the use of locally sourced timber as the principal material. Timber not only offers aesthetic warmth but also resonates with the surrounding forest environment, creating a sense of belonging and connection to nature. Concrete footers provide stability while elevating the structure above the ground, minimizing disturbance to the natural terrain. Additional elements, such as steel fasteners, are utilized to ensure structural integrity, allowing for a reliable and safe dining environment. Large glass components are thoughtfully integrated into the design to foster a sense of openness and transparency, allowing visitors to engage visually with the landscape outside.

Uniquely, "The Sound of Food" incorporates acoustics as a central element of the design philosophy. The project acknowledges the role that sound plays in the experience of food and community. By creating spaces that enhance both natural and human-made sounds, the project encourages an immersive dining experience where musical performances can coexist with the sounds of cooking and communal conversations. This emphasis on sound not only enriches the atmosphere but also aligns with Latvia’s rich cultural heritage, allowing visitors to appreciate the intersection of music and culinary arts in a cohesive environment.

Moreover, the outdoor seating area is designed to extend this experience beyond the enclosed space, providing flexible arrangements that accommodate social interaction while allowing users to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. By blending indoor and outdoor experiences, the design fosters a communal atmosphere that encourages guests to linger, socialize, and appreciate the festive environment.

In summary, "The Sound of Food" stands as a significant architectural project that skillfully blends the realms of culinary tradition and local musical culture within a thoughtfully designed forest setting. This project illustrates a comprehensive approach to architecture, where functionality, sustainability, and cultural appreciation are interwoven. Its unique design strategies, such as the integration of sound into the architectural experience and the careful selection of materials, contribute to creating a space that is both inviting and representative of its locality. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, delving into the presentation will offer additional insights into its thoughtful conception and execution.
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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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