Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Thatch Roofing and Timber Framing Create a Sustainable Culinary Hub Within Woodland Setting

Authors:
Viktor Gekker, Jack Lehane
Thatch Roofing and Timber Framing Create a Sustainable Culinary Hub Within Woodland Setting

Project in-detail

Integrating thatch roofing and softwood timber framing, the culinary commons harmonizes with its forest environment to foster community engagement through shared cooking experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a unique bent A-frame design for optimal spatial dynamics.
02
Utilizes locally sourced thatch roofing to enhance environmental compatibility.
03
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for landscape irrigation.
04
Features modular kitchen spaces encouraging interactive culinary experiences.
05
Protects existing trees within the site layout, promoting ecological preservation.
The Sansusī Forest Culinary Commons is an architectural project designed to serve as a community hub focused on culinary experiences within a forested environment. The structure emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, creating a space that supports both communal dining and cooking activities while fostering environmental awareness. The design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

The project features a rectilinear form and an undulating roof that maximizes natural light and ventilation. Key materials used include treated softwood timber for framing and walls, thatch roofing for thermal efficiency, wooden batten cladding for weather protection, and gravel for landscaping purposes. These choices reflect an adherence to local materiality and environmental sensitivity.

The internal layout promotes functionality and social interaction. Open kitchen areas facilitate culinary demonstrations, while flexible seating accommodates both small gatherings and larger community events. Unique aspects of the project include a dedicated dome stage for performances and a collective use fireplace that serves both practical cooking needs and as a communal focal point.

Innovative design approaches highlight the project’s commitment to sustainability. Strategic rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the roof design assist in irrigation, promoting ecological responsibility. The use of locally sourced materials and passive design principles enhances its environmental performance.

The Sansusī Forest Culinary Commons stands as a model for architecture that merges natural elements with communal functionality. It invites further exploration of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas to understand its comprehensive approach to design and community engagement. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation of this project to reveal its nuances and practical applications in the realm of architectural design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16,979 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