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Suspended Glass Canopy of Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled in a Forested Gathering Space

Authors:
Yiwei Wang, Jeremy Yeh, Jia Yue Tan
Suspended Glass Canopy of Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled in a Forested Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Suspended within a forest, the light-filled structure features a retractable fabric facade and cross-laminated timber panels, offering a flexible gathering space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features a semi-transparent fabric facade that can be adjusted for varying weather conditions.
02
Suspended using a sophisticated cable system, the roof design creates a sense of lightness and floating above the forest floor.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized not only for structural support but also to enhance thermal performance.
04
Integrated gathering spaces are strategically placed to facilitate social interaction while providing views of the natural landscape.
05
The project emphasizes minimal site disturbance, preserving the existing flora and promoting environmental harmony.
The architectural design project, named Piano, represents a thoughtful response to the surrounding landscape, integrating human activity with nature in a unique manner. Located strategically between a Dome Stage and the KHOR rest area, this project serves as an essential gathering point for festival visitors, blending utility with an immersive experience in a forested environment. The design aims not only to provide a space for dining and relaxation but also to celebrate the connections people share with their surroundings.

Piano functions as a flexible venue that accommodates various activities, inviting visitors to engage in social interactions while enjoying the natural beauty of the setting. The core concept prioritizes this interaction, delineating spaces for dining, information dissemination, and tranquility, ensuring that the architecture supports the needs of its users efficiently. Each area is intuitively arranged to facilitate movement and foster connections among festival-goers, creating a lively atmosphere.

The project showcases a careful selection of materials, each chosen for its suitability to the environment and its contribution to the structure's overall character. Predominantly, glass is employed to enhance visual connections with the landscape, allowing natural light to flood the interior while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding trees. This transparency facilitates a sense of openness and encourages visitors to feel part of the outdoor experience even when indoors.

Timber is another primary material used throughout the project, featured in both the structures and furnishings. Its organic quality imbues the space with warmth and comfort, reinforcing the architectural relationship with nature. This choice aligns with contemporary sustainability efforts, as responsibly sourced wood minimizes environmental impact while providing durability and aesthetic appeal. Steel components add structural integrity, particularly in the form of a cable system that suspends the roof, allowing the design to maintain a lightweight, airy presence.

A notable innovation in Piano's design is the use of a soft fabric facade. This feature grants the building an adaptable quality, permitting the exterior to be opened or closed based on weather conditions and user preferences. This degree of flexibility enhances the functional versatility of the space and allows for varied uses throughout the year, from open-air dining to cozy shelter during inclement weather. The careful sealing where the fabric meets the framing ensures weather protection, enhancing user comfort.

The integration of various functional zones within the layout reflects a user-centric approach to design. Visitors easily flow from one area to another, with the central dining area acting as a hub that connects the activities embodied in the structure. This design actively encourages socialization, making the space not just a place to eat but a venue for gathering and sharing experiences.

Piano stands out for its innovative blend of architecture and nature. The way it delicately interacts with the forest creates a unique spatial experience that resonates deeply with the concept of relaxed social gatherings in a beautiful environment. The project exemplifies how architecture can enhance and elevate human experiences while being respectful of its natural context.

For those interested in architectural insights and detailed explorations of design, the project presentation offers a wealth of information, from architectural plans and sections to innovative architectural ideas. This thoughtful design serves not merely as a backdrop for activities but as an integral part of the community's fabric and an invitation to explore the synergy between built and natural environments. Exploring the project through its detailed architectural elements will provide a deeper understanding of its purpose and the thoughtful decisions that shaped its realization.
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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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