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Translucent Canopy Created from Inflated Fibre and Timber Structure for Urban Reading Spaces

Authors:
Rafael Helm, Thiago Borchers
Translucent Canopy Created from Inflated Fibre and Timber Structure for Urban Reading Spaces
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A partially translucent inflatable canopy supported by a timber frame creates a distinctive urban reading environment, seamlessly integrating natural elements with a focus on sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
A partially translucent inflatable canopy allows natural light to filter through, enhancing the reading experience.
02
The structure is primarily constructed from cross-laminated timber, providing both strength and sustainability.
03
An innovative bent A-frame design maximizes space while ensuring structural stability.
04
Sound insulation elements are incorporated to minimize external noise, fostering a tranquil environment for readers.
05
The pavilion's layout promotes flexible use, accommodating both solitary reading and small group activities.

## Overview

CLOUD9 is an architectural design project located in an urban setting, dedicated to fostering an enhanced public reading experience. The intent is to create a pavilion that serves as a communal hub for relaxation and literary engagement, responding to the increasing demand for tranquil spaces amidst the fast pace of modern life. This design integrates sensory stimulation with environmental considerations, establishing a reading ecosystem that encourages mindfulness.

### Spatial Organization and Experience

The entry sequence to CLOUD9 features a narrow passage that signals a transition from the external environment to a contemplative space dedicated to reading. This design creates a sense of anticipation and privacy, which is essential for fostering a focused reading environment. The pavilion employs a "floating cloud" concept, achieved through an innovative inflatable canopy, which enhances the ethereal quality of the space and blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior. The interaction with nature is further emphasized by the pavilion's careful integration into its surroundings, allowing users to experience auditory and visual stimuli, such as birdsong and dappled sunlight from above, during their literary pursuits.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction of CLOUD9 prioritizes sustainability by utilizing materials with low environmental impact. The primary structure is composed of timber, chosen for its durability and aesthetic warmth, while an inflatable roof made from partially translucent fiber enables light diffusion, enhancing the ambient quality of the reading space. The underlying metal framework provides stability and facilitates straightforward assembly and disassembly, contributing to the pavilion's versatility. Additionally, the use of linen in the finishing touches adds softness, enriching the sensory experience of users. These material choices reflect a commitment to eco-friendly design, aligning with contemporary trends that emphasize sustainability in architecture.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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