Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Tectonic Geometry and Natural Light in a Forest Visitor Center

Author:
Liangchen Zhao
Tectonic Geometry and Natural Light in a Forest Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Incorporating tectonic geometry and large windows for natural light, the design merges with the forest landscape to serve as an inviting visitor center in Pape Nature Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Faceted roof design mimics tree forms, enhancing the connection to nature.
02
Rainwater harvesting system integrated into column structure for sustainable water management.
03
Large operable windows promote natural ventilation and maximize views of the surroundings.
04
Use of local materials ensures a minimal environmental footprint and context-specific aesthetics.
05
Circulation design separates pedestrian paths from vehicles, enhancing visitor safety and experience.

Pape Nature Park Gateway is located in the natural landscape of Pape Nature Park, serving as an entry point for visitors. The design takes inspiration from the forms of trees and the movements of the Earth’s crust. It creates a strong connection between the structure and the surrounding forested area, welcoming guests into the park.

Design Inspiration

The form of the building is shaped by the geometric qualities found in nature. The design reflects the simple structures of trees, conveying a sense of familiarity. This connection to the environment helps the building blend into its surroundings, making it part of the landscape rather than separate from it. The organization of the space draws upon natural patterns, adding to the overall coherence of the structure.

Ecological Features

Sustainability is an important aspect of the design. A rainwater harvesting system collects water, using pipes built into the columns to direct it to underground tanks. This feature not only reduces water usage but also makes the most of the natural resources available on site. The building incorporates methods that align with environmental best practices, highlighting a commitment to ecological responsibility.

Spatial Organization

The layout addresses the needs of visitors, ensuring safety and accessibility throughout the site. Pedestrian paths are clearly separated from vehicle routes, minimizing conflicts and enhancing the experience. A designated area allows visitors to easily load and unload at campsites, while winding paths connect the structure to the natural surroundings. This careful planning supports a smooth flow for those exploring the park.

Design Details

Large windows are a key feature of the building, designed to bring in natural light and create a bright atmosphere. The placement of these windows helps connect the interior spaces with the outdoors, allowing visitors to appreciate the changing scenery even while inside. This focus on natural light adds to the welcoming nature of the building and reinforces its relationship with the park’s landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy