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Translucent Fabric and Plywood Pavilion Integrating Community Engagement Near Historic Stones

Author:
Rachel Livesey
Translucent Fabric and Plywood Pavilion Integrating Community Engagement Near Historic Stones

Project in-detail

Constructed with a harmonious blend of translucent fabric and plywood, the pavilion offers a modern platform for community engagement while reflecting the historic significance of its Stonehenge surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion incorporates a circular layout that mirrors the ancient formation of Stonehenge, fostering a connection between past and present.
02
It utilizes a combination of plywood and translucent fabric to create a warm, inviting atmosphere with ample natural light.
03
The design features adaptable spaces that can seamlessly transform for various community events and exhibitions.
04
Integrated environmental awareness initiatives within the workshop area encourage hands-on learning about sustainability.
05
The outdoor performance space promotes social interaction, enhancing the pavilion’s role as a community hub.
The "Wandering Among Wonders: Pavilion of First Contact" is an architectural project designed as a dynamic space dedicated to human achievements and exploration. Nestled within the historic context of Stonehenge, this pavilion stands as a contemporary homage to both ancient civilizations and the ongoing quest for knowledge about the universe. The project aims to foster a dialogue between the monumental past represented by Stonehenge and modern aspirations for discovering future possibilities.

This pavilion serves multiple functions, primarily acting as an exhibition space that invites visitors to engage with various aspects of humanity’s accomplishments across science, technology, art, and culture. It promotes education and interaction, encouraging people to reflect on their own contributions to society. The design is characterized by a circular layout that echoes the formation of Stonehenge, symbolically bridging the ancient with the contemporary while creating a sense of continuity and belonging.

Key components of the pavilion include a welcoming reception area designed to orient visitors upon arrival. This space serves as a threshold into the deeper explorations housed within the pavilion. The core exhibition area is a flexible gallery that showcases related exhibitions, allowing for a diverse range of displays that highlight significant achievements across disciplines, from technological innovations to artistic expressions. This modular design ensures adaptability, enabling the exhibition space to evolve with changing themes and new content.

Another vital aspect of the pavilion is the workshop area, designed to provide hands-on learning experiences. This space emphasizes the importance of practical engagement, where participants can dive into crafts that inspire creativity and environmental awareness. The ability to engage visitors directly through workshops enhances the educational mission of the pavilion, making learning an active process rather than a passive observation.

The outdoor performance space enriches the overall experience by serving as a communal gathering point. This area is intended for various events and performances, promoting social interaction and creativity in an open environment. The design emphasizes fluidity, allowing visitors to move between indoor and outdoor realms, creating an integrated experience that blurs the boundaries between different functions and spaces.

Material selection plays a significant role in the project’s approach to design. The primary materials, which include plywood and fabric mesh, were chosen for their sustainability, aesthetic qualities, and functional characteristics. Plywood adds warmth and a tactile quality to the spaces, while the fabric mesh contributes to the pavilion's transparency and lightness. This thoughtful materiality encourages engagement, as visitors physically connect with the environment while being immersed in the exhibitions.

Unique design approaches exhibited in the pavilion reflect a deeper understanding of how architecture can influence human interaction and experience. The circular design not only aligns with the historic context of Stonehenge but also creates a sense of inclusivity and togetherness, inviting visitors to gather and share their thoughts and ideas. The adaptive spaces within the pavilion allow for various activities and events, fostering a sense of community among diverse groups of people.

In summary, the "Wandering Among Wonders: Pavilion of First Contact" is an architectural endeavor that brings together elements of history, community, and human achievement. Its multifaceted design invites exploration and interaction, encouraging visitors to reflect on their roles within the larger narrative of human progress. For those interested in understanding the nuances of this project, detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements are available for review, providing further insight into this thoughtful and evocative architectural design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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