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Thatched Roof over a Wildlife Garden with Gulam Pillars

Author:
Erik Heiman
Thatched Roof over a Wildlife Garden with Gulam Pillars
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A natural thatched roof coupled with solid Gulam wood pillars creates a unique environment that seamlessly integrates an exotic garden with wildlife, allowing visitors to engage with nature in a dedicated exhibition space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a thatched roof that provides effective thermal regulation.
02
Solid Gulam wood pillars mimic the form of palm trees, enhancing the natural theme.
03
Two bridges create shaded areas while providing views of the surrounding garden.
04
An exotic garden acts as a natural barrier, supporting a diverse ecosystem.
05
Glass curtain walls maximize transparency and connect visitors with the wildlife.

The Beak is designed to focus on engaging visitors with wildlife in an interactive environment. Set within a carefully planned landscape, the structure functions as both an exhibition area and a space for people to experience nature. The concept revolves around fostering a connection between the visitors and the surrounding wildlife, allowing for close encounters while maintaining ecological balance.

Structural Form and Angles

Delicate angles in the architectural form enhance the connection with the surrounding wildlife. These thoughtfully designed features create framed views that invite curiosity and exploration from those who enter. The layout encourages a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, highlighting the close relationship with the natural landscape.

Garden as Ecosystem

An exotic garden plays a vital role in the design, functioning as an independent ecosystem. This garden acts as a natural barrier, allowing visitors to engage with wildlife without causing disturbances. Two bridges are placed strategically to provide shaded areas, offering comfort while enabling guests to enjoy the beauty of the ecological surroundings.

Material Transparency

A natural thatched roof is essential for managing thermal comfort in the building. This design choice helps keep areas cool during warmer days, improving the visitor experience in spaces that provide panoramic views. Impressive glass curtain walls increase visibility, allowing natural light to enter while framing views of the outside environment and its wildlife.

Unique Structural Elements

Solid Gulam wood forms the core of the structure, delivering stability and a sense of warmth. A center pillar takes the shape of a palm tree, reflecting the organic theme throughout the design. The exterior pillars bend to resemble reed straws swaying in the wind, demonstrating an innovative approach to construction that aligns with the natural elements present.

The careful integration of these features results in architecture that reflects and respects its ecological context. The Beak emerges as a place where visitors can connect meaningfully with the environment around them, encouraging an appreciation of nature in all its forms.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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