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Thatch Roofing and Softwood Framework for Culinary Community Gathering

Authors:
Viktor Gekker, Jack Lehane
Thatch Roofing and Softwood Framework for Culinary Community Gathering

Project in-detail

Constructed with thatch roofing and a softwood framework, the culinary commons creates a community space that fosters social interaction while respecting the natural forest environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thatch roofing system designed for weather resistance and sustainability.
02
Softwood modules create a warm, inviting atmosphere for culinary activities.
03
Central Dome Stage enhances social gatherings and community events.
04
Extant trees preserved to integrate natural elements into the design.
05
Distributed flora complements the landscape and enriches user experience.

The Sansusī Forest Culinary Commons is located in a natural forest area, designed to enhance culinary experiences and foster community involvement. The project features a modular layout, which allows for different food service areas that blend well with the surrounding environment. It emphasizes accessibility and interaction, creating spaces that can be used for both public and private activities in a calm and inviting setting.

Culinary Modules

The design includes three caterer modules, each serving different culinary functions and supported by a storage module. These elements are strategically placed to promote efficient movement throughout the space. This organization ensures that operational tasks do not interfere with visitors' experiences. Public and private paths are clearly defined, contributing to the overall usability and comfort of the area.

Central Feature

At the heart of the design is the Dome Stage, which serves as a gathering point for events. This feature is designed to attract visitors and act as a central hub within the commons. Surrounding the stage is a food court concourse that encourages shared dining experiences. This arrangement fosters social interaction, making the space feel welcoming and community-oriented.

Sustainability and Landscape Integration

Environmental considerations are key to the project. The preservation of existing trees highlights a commitment to sustainability. The landscaping incorporates various plants that work harmoniously with the ecosystem, adding both sensory richness and visual appeal. This thoughtful blend of natural elements enhances the overall ambiance of the culinary commons, making it feel connected to its surroundings.

Materials and Construction

The construction involves specific materials for durability and function. Thatch is used for the roofing system, applied in overlapping layers for protection against weather. Softwood timber is the main structural element, creating a warm atmosphere while supporting the design’s integrity. Wooden sticks, known as laggering, are part of the roofing assembly, working with ridge rolls to secure the thatch. The foundation options, including concrete or stone pad footings, provide necessary support for the modular structures, reflecting a practical approach to building.

Such careful attention to materials and structural systems results in a design that respects and complements the natural environment, creating an engaging space for communal culinary experiences.

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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

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