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Thatching and a-Frame Structures Creating a Culinary Gathering Space in a Forest

Authors:
Viktor Gekker, Jack Lehane
Thatching and a-Frame Structures Creating a Culinary Gathering Space in a Forest

Project in-detail

A collective fireplace serves as the social centerpiece amidst a series of caterer modules and carefully preserved trees, creating a multifunctional space for culinary experiences in a harmonious forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
A collective fireplace enhances social interaction among visitors.
02
The design preserves existing trees, integrating nature into the layout.
03
Three distinct caterer modules provide varied culinary offerings.
04
A bent A-frame structure supports the roof, combining tradition with contemporary design.
05
Natural flora complements the architecture, enriching the forest experience.

The Sansusī Forest Culinary Commons integrates culinary facilities within a forest environment. Located among existing trees, the design fosters community interaction and emphasizes ecological sustainability. The concept centers on creating a shared culinary experience, where visitors can engage with a variety of food offerings while surrounded by nature.

CATERER MODULES

Three caterer modules form the backbone of the Commons, each tailored to facilitate efficient service and enhance the dining experience. Their arrangement encourages people to gather, promoting social interaction. The modules create a lively atmosphere, where different culinary experiences are available within a cohesive space.

PUBLIC CIRCULATION

Clear public circulation paths improve accessibility, allowing visitors to move easily through the area. Pathways are designed to guide guests toward important features, such as the Dome Stage, which serves as a central gathering point for events. The layout makes a distinction between public and private areas, enabling personal gatherings while preserving a communal environment.

SUSTAINABILITY AND ECOLOGY

A key aspect of the design is the preservation of existing trees, demonstrating a dedication to ecological sustainability. Natural elements, such as distributed flora, have been integrated into the site, enriching the landscape and creating a connection between the constructed space and the environment. This approach aligns with a growing focus on responsible architectural practices.

DESIGN DETAILS

The design includes a carefully considered roof system that uses softwood timber battens and an A-frame structure for support. The roofs feature tightly overlapped thatching, secured to an open framing grid. This design merges traditional construction techniques with modern requirements. The intricate roof detail not only serves functional purposes but also enhances the overall appearance of the culinary commons, contributing to the inviting atmosphere.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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