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Sustainable Eco-Concrete Structure With Dynamic Form Integrating Natural Light and Community Engagement

Author:
Helin Ogan
Sustainable Eco-Concrete Structure With Dynamic Form Integrating Natural Light and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Emphasizing its eco-concrete construction and dynamic cantilevered form, the pavilion serves as a vital community hub that fosters dialogue around migration and environmental awareness while seamlessly integrating with its waterfront setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's cantilevered design maximizes views of the waterfront while minimizing its footprint on the landscape.
02
Eco-concrete is utilized to enhance sustainability and longevity, reducing environmental impact compared to traditional materials.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while allowing for a warmer aesthetic within the interior spaces.
04
Charred wooden shingles were selected for their durability and unique visual texture, reflecting traditional building techniques.
05
Natural light is optimized throughout the pavilion, with strategically placed glass facades that connect visitors to the surrounding environment.
The Pavilion of Humanity: First Contact is an architectural project that serves as a thoughtful exploration of the complex interrelationships between migration, humanity, and the natural environment, particularly in relation to water. This project emphasizes the role that waterways have played in shaping human civilization and serves as a physical space for reflection, interaction, and education around these themes.

Designed with a focus on mobility, the pavilion reflects the dynamic nature of human experience, engaging visitors in a narrative that speaks to both historical journeys and contemporary discussions on migration. It represents not only a space for gathering but also a platform for dialogue about the movements of people and the impact of environmental factors on these movements. The pavilion invites visitors to consider how natural phenomena have influenced human development throughout history and how our relationship with water remains a fundamental aspect of our existence.

The architectural design features an organic, flowing form that mirrors the movements of water and echo the cycles inherent in both nature and human life. Visitors are greeted by a series of interconnected spaces that facilitate an intimate experience with the environment. The layout includes gallery areas for showcasing art and narratives, a café designed for community engagement, and versatile conference spaces for discussions on cultural exchange and global mobility. Viewing decks are strategically placed to offer serene perspectives of the surrounding water, reinforcing the interaction between the pavilion and its natural setting.

Material selection plays a crucial role in shaping both the aesthetic and functional attributes of the pavilion. Concrete serves as the core structural element, ensuring durability while facilitating the sweeping curves and cantilevers that define the design. Wood introduces warmth and tactility to the space, aligning with traditional maritime building practices, while glass facades enhance transparency and invite natural light into the interior. Metal components provide structural integrity, allowing for bold cantilevers that expand the usable space. These materials collectively foster a dialogue between the built environment and the natural landscape, emphasizing sustainability and respect for local ecological conditions.

A unique aspect of this architectural project is its emphasis on environmental harmony. The design actively engages with its surroundings, incorporating pathways and elevations that encourage exploration and contemplative interaction with nature. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces creates an inviting environment that not only enhances visitor experience but also promotes discourse about the importance of ecological stewardship.

Furthermore, the pavilion’s design addresses various modes of transport, reinforcing its role as a central hub for mobility and connectivity. It is positioned as a vital node in a broader network, supporting a range of transportation options, from pedestrian pathways to water transport. This thoughtful approach recognizes the evolving nature of mobility in contemporary society and highlights the pavilion’s function as a facilitator of dialogue on these pressing subjects.

The Pavilion of Humanity stands as a comprehensive and engaging architectural expression that encourages visitors to connect with the themes of migration and environmental awareness. By offering a multifaceted space for reflection and interaction, the project invites exploration and communication surrounding humanity's shared experiences. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin this project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer valuable insights into the thoughtful considerations that have shaped its conception. This exploration of the Pavilion of Humanity illuminates the potential of architecture to foster meaningful connections between people, their history, and their environment.
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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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