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Volcanic Stone Pavilion Featuring Community-Centered Fire Ring and Glass Transparency

Authors:
Francisca Gonzalez, Pablo Arias, Pola Ovando, Samuel Carmona
Volcanic Stone Pavilion Featuring Community-Centered Fire Ring and Glass Transparency

Project in-detail

Crafted from indigenous volcanic stone and enhanced with expansive glass elements, this pavilion centers around a communal fire ring that invites reflection on the resilient history of Rapa Nui while providing a dynamic space for cultural education and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's design incorporates locally sourced volcanic stone, emphasizing sustainability and connection to the island’s geological heritage.
02
A central fire ring serves as a cultural focal point, encouraging community gatherings and storytelling reflective of Rapa Nui traditions.
03
Large glass panels create an uninterrupted visual connection to the surrounding landscape, enhancing the visitor experience with natural light.
04
Interactive exhibits within the pavilion promote active engagement, allowing visitors to participate in cultural narratives and traditions.
05
The circular layout fosters inclusivity and continuity, inviting easy movement and interaction among visitors throughout the space.
The architectural project known as the "Race of the Bird-Man" Pavilion embodies a profound exploration of cultural heritage and community engagement through its thoughtful design and consideration of historical narratives specific to Rapa Nui, or Easter Island. This pavilion serves as both a tribute to its rich cultural history and a dynamic space for interaction, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with the stories and traditions of the land.

At its core, the pavilion represents a modern interpretation of the Tangata Manu ceremony, an ancient ritual that determined community leaders through competitive prowess. This foundational concept is not merely a historical reference; it speaks to broader themes of leadership, resilience, and the adaptive nature of societies when faced with changing environments. The architectural design captures the essence of this tradition while providing a contemporary space for reflection and connection to the natural world.

Functionally, the pavilion is designed to facilitate various activities centered on cultural education, community gatherings, and immersive experiences. The central space, often called the Fire Ring, is where participants come together, representing the heart of the pavilion. This area encourages communal gathering and dialogue, symbolizing the importance of unity in celebrating cultural identity. Surrounding this central feature, exhibition chambers showcase interactive displays and narratives about Rapa Nui’s history, offering a multifaceted approach to storytelling that invites active participation from visitors.

A notable aspect of the design is its spatial configuration. The circular form fosters a sense of inclusivity and continuity, guiding visitors seamlessly through the various zones within the pavilion. This layout not only respects the cultural significance of the site but also enhances the overall experience by allowing individuals to engage with the space and each other in meaningful ways.

Materiality plays a critical role in the pavilion’s architectural expression. The use of volcanic stone reflects the geological characteristics of Easter Island, creating a strong connection between the structure and its surroundings. This choice of material honors the historical construction techniques of the Rapa Nui people while providing a durable and visually appealing façade. Complementing the stone, large glass elements ensure a flow of natural light throughout the space, which helps enhance the atmosphere while maintaining strong visual links to the surrounding landscape. This relationship with nature, emphasized through transparency, invites visitors to feel a part of the environment, fostering a deeper appreciation for the site.

The integration of steel as a structural component introduces a modern juxtaposition to the organic qualities of volcanic stone. This contrast not only strengthens the pavilion's stability but also symbolizes the intersection of tradition and contemporary architectural practices. The careful balance between these materials enhances the narrative of resilience, illustrating how the past informs present and future.

Unique design approaches within the pavilion include the incorporation of interactive installations that invite visitor participation. This active engagement transforms the experience from passive observation to dynamic interaction, urging individuals to reflect on their roles within the larger community narrative. By encouraging visitors to partake in simulated activities that recall the competitive elements of the Bird-Man ceremony, the pavilion emphasizes the importance of cultural remembrance and collective identity.

The "Race of the Bird-Man" Pavilion thus stands as a significant architectural project. It transcends mere structural design by embracing a narrative that is deeply rooted in the cultural identity of Rapa Nui. By harmoniously blending historical elements with modern architectural practices, the pavilion successfully creates a space that is both reflective and forward-looking. Visitors seeking to understand the architectural plans, sections, and designs will find a wealth of insight into how the project encapsulates the spirit of resilience and community. For those intrigued by the unique design ideas this project embodies, exploring the detailed presentations will provide a richer context and understanding of its significance.
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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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