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Translucent Panels and Two-Way Glass Envelop a Reflection Pavilion in Natural Wood Tones

Author:
Giselle Coujil
Translucent Panels and Two-Way Glass Envelop a Reflection Pavilion in Natural Wood Tones

Project in-detail

Enveloped in a reflective shell of two-way glass and accented by warm wooden elements, this pavilion serves as an immersive learning space that invites visitors to engage in a dialogue about human achievements and failures.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion employs two-way glass, allowing engaging reflections of the surrounding environment.
02
Warm wooden elements, including charred shingles, create a contrast with the modern glass facade.
03
A bent A-frame design enhances structural integrity while providing a distinctive silhouette.
04
Scaled modules within the pavilion celebrate specific human achievements through interactive exhibits.
05
The design prioritizes child-led interactions to foster curiosity and dialogue among visitors.
The project titled "Pavilion of Humanity: First Contact" is an architectural exploration designed to explore the fundamental aspects of human experience by juxtaposing themes of success and failure. Situated in a location that symbolizes our connection to Earth, the pavilion seeks to engage visitors in an interactive and reflective manner, creating a narrative that highlights humanity's journey through history. The architectural design establishes an environment conducive to learning, dialogue, and introspection, allowing visitors to navigate both the achievements and shortcomings that have shaped our collective identity.

The pavilion’s concept revolves around the idea that every journey of humanity includes notable accomplishments interspersed with failures. These dualities are seamlessly integrated into the architectural narrative, prompting visitors to reconsider their own perspectives and the significance of their experiences. The primary function of the pavilion is to serve as a learning space, encouraging curiosity about our past and fostering discussions on the complexities of human stories.

The organization of the project features a central Main Deck from which six pavilions emerge, each representing distinct "Pavilions of Success." This unique layout encourages exploration and interaction, as visitors can move through various scaled architectural modules that celebrate significant milestones in human progress. Essential parts of the design include a Library Pavilion that acts as a knowledge repository, a Glass Entry Pavilion that welcomes visitors with transparency, and distinctly themed Pavilions of Success, each designed to encapsulate specific historical achievements. Furthermore, an Observation Bridge is included to provide an elevated perspective of the entire installation, while a Human Interaction Courtyard serves as a communal space where engagement can occur naturally.

The design employs a thoughtful material palette, consisting of two-way glass, wood, concrete, and translucent panels. The two-way glass plays a dual role: it fosters communication between the interior and exterior settings while allowing for a reflective experience crucial for visitor engagement. In contrast, the use of wood introduces warmth and an organic quality that complements the modern aesthetic of the glass and concrete structures. The predominant utilization of concrete as a foundational material ensures longevity and stability, essential for a project seeking to symbolize endurance in the face of human challenges. Translucent panels contribute to dynamic lighting effects, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and contemplation.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Pavilion of Humanity is its innovative approach toward visitor interaction. By positioning children as guides, the design emphasizes innocence and inquisitiveness, fostering an environment where questions and exploration can thrive. This unique methodology encourages a shift in perspective, allowing visitors to engage with the narrative in a more personal and relatable manner. The pavilion encourages dialogue not only among human visitors but also conceptualizes interaction with a hypothetical extraterrestrial audience, lending an imaginative layer to the experience.

Throughout the project, there is a conscious effort to highlight the importance of learning from the past while celebrating achievements. The experience can feel immersive, as visitors navigate the interconnected spaces designed to provoke thought and invoke a sense of shared humanity and collective memory. The architectural decisions underscore the importance of both physical and metaphorical dialogue, reflecting the core themes of connection and understanding within the human narrative.

For those interested in gaining a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, it is encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that encapsulate the pavilion's intentions. These elements provide further insight into the carefully considered architectural ideas that drive the thoughtful layout and materiality of the Pavilion of Humanity. By delving deeper into these aspects, readers can grasp the full extent of what this project aims to achieve in terms of shaping an environment for reflection and learning, ultimately inviting a broader conversation around the experience of humanity.
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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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