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Translucent Canopy Constructed with Modular Steel and Timber for Interactive Reading Space

Authors:
Riccardo Beccaro, Giulia Cerpelloni
Translucent Canopy Constructed with Modular Steel and Timber for Interactive Reading Space

Project in-detail

A translucent canopy formed from modular steel and triangulated timber invites visitors into a serene reading space that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with modular steel components that enhance flexibility in design.
02
Incorporates triangulated timber panels for optimized structural integrity.
03
Features a canopy design that maximizes natural light while minimizing heat gain.
04
Utilizes charred wood finishes for added durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Engages directly with the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless integration.

### ONYX Pavilion Overview

The ONYX Pavilion is situated within an innovative architectural context that merges the disciplines of literature and spatial experience. Drawing inspiration from the properties of the gemstone onyx, the design encourages introspection while maintaining a cohesive interaction with its environment. The pavilion adeptly serves its purpose as a space for reading and reflection, underlining the relationship between the built form and the outside world.

### Spatial and Structural Configuration

The architecture employs a distinct triangular geometry, utilizing equilateral triangles as the primary structural element. This choice not only creates a visual coherence that adapts to diverse surroundings but also establishes multiple triangular openings that foster transparency and continuity between the interior and exterior landscapes. The interior layout emphasizes a central triangular seating area paired with shelving, facilitating focused reading and contemplative engagement while allowing for flexible circulation throughout the space.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The pavilion's material palette reflects principles of simplicity, functionality, and sustainability. Extensive use of wood in flooring, shelves, and structural components adds warmth and tactile richness to the environment. A steel base ensures structural integrity while elevating the pavilion to accommodate varying terrain. Additionally, the incorporation of fabric covering the triangular apertures softens the natural light entering the space, connecting the interior ambiance with the surrounding environment. This deliberate selection of materials enhances the pavilion’s adaptability while promoting a harmonious balance between built and natural elements.

### Interaction and Modularity

The design promotes user engagement through strategically defined zones for reading, relaxation, and social interaction, effectively transforming the pavilion into a communal space. Innovative structural features, such as modular seating created from extruded triangles, utilize magnet-based connections for ease of assembly, allowing for both versatility and functionality. The large triangular apertures ensure unobstructed views of the landscape, enhancing visual connectivity and fostering a profound psychological link between users and the natural setting.

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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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