Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Weathering Steel Dome Embracing Introspection in a Community Pavilion

Author:
Roman Montoto
Weathering Steel Dome Embracing Introspection in a Community Pavilion

Project in-detail

A dome constructed from weathering steel creates a serene space for reflection, while the intertwining of semi-public and semi-private areas invites community engagement within a dedicated meditation pavilion.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion integrates multiple meditation zones for varying levels of privacy.
02
A central fireplace serves as a communal focal point, promoting social interaction.
03
The dome structure enhances acoustics, providing a tranquil environment for meditation.
04
Materials were selected for durability and environmental harmony with the site.
05
Construction techniques utilized CNC-cut components for efficient assembly on-site.

The Recalibration - Meditation Pavilion is designed to facilitate a range of meditation experiences within a natural setting. It addresses the need for personal reflection and community engagement through its thoughtfully planned spaces. The overall concept is focused on recalibration, encouraging visitors to step away from their daily lives and immerse themselves in moments of quiet and introspection.

Architectural Concept

The pavilion creates a distinct separation between its public and private areas. In the semi-public meditation space, visitors can interact and connect with each other, which fosters a sense of community. This openness contrasts with the dome-like structure that provides a secluded environment for individuals seeking solitude. Together, these elements allow for a variety of meditation practices and experiences.

Spatial Dynamics

Vertical elements play an important role in the design, serving as key features throughout the pavilion. A central fireplace acts as a focal point, drawing people in and creating a warm atmosphere for gathering. This design encourages social interaction while still allowing space for personal contemplation. The thoughtful spatial layout effectively balances communal engagement with areas designed for introspection.

Material Selection

Material choices are integral to the pavilion's construction and visual impact. The project utilizes cementitious cladding, a weathering steel frame, high iron tempered glazing, acacia wood screens, aluminum cladding, and site-cast concrete. These materials enhance both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the pavilion. They also help to ground the building in its natural surroundings, creating a harmonious relationship with the landscape.

Construction Techniques

The construction methods employed reflect modern practices focused on efficiency and customization. The use of flat CNC-cut components allows for straightforward assembly, enabling flexibility in the design. This approach not only strengthens the pavilion's structure but also reinforces its connection to the site, enriching the overall experience for visitors.

The design features a contrast between heavy load-bearing elements and lighter frameworks, creating an engaging visual tension. Each detail adds to an experience that allows visitors to recalibrate their senses and find peace within a well-considered environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy