Spirala
Community Home

The project, titled ‘Swirl Pavilion’, proposes a circular structure made of rammed earth and timber, featuring openings on the east and west for natural ventilation, and an inclined green roof centered on a skylight. According to the jury, “There is a quiet subtlety about this design that made this proposal stand out. Thought has been given to the sourcing of materials and the climate within the building, and it is all presented with a clarity of vision. The proposal reveals a balance between shape, function, and surrounding integration. A careful control of light, contributing to a special interior environment. It is a convincing architectural solution with an elegant structural expression. Good use of thermal mass for temperature regulation and rammed earth for humidity regulation.” The jurors also suggested that a greener solution would show a reduced slab area, and that orienting part of the opaque block towards the west would reduce evening solar heat gain.

‘Shadow Cycles’ is described as “a constellation of programs orbiting around a protective shadow in motion”. The plan is designed around a primary circle partially enclosed with a tall, pitched roof that casts shadows on exterior spaces during the hot summer months. It is a dynamic and flexible proposal with an interesting correlation between exterior spaces and interior spaces, plus seasonal cycles. The jury writes, “This project had a reality and humbleness about it. It would undoubtedly be a wonderful place for the community. It is commendable for being minimal yet complex. Images describe the architectural tone of the project very well. A highly original concept dealing specifically with the conditions of the sun. This is a refreshing stance on architectural form built theatrically around the path of the day, which takes into account the myriad activities that can happen outdoors or with varying levels of protection.” The jurors suggest rethinking the integration of plastics towards local and sustainable solutions for long term maintenance, as well as further investigations into how the site’s slope might be taken advantage of to strengthen the concept. 

‘In Between’ is a sunken rectangular form, made of concrete with two large circular spaces, one exterior and one interior, and topped with a roof garden. The jury commented, “An evocative form and use of the site slope. A poetic use of exterior and interior space, beautifully drawn and rendered. The approach is quite atmospheric, and while it does not expressly take in themes of circularity outside material composition, it does leave opportunity for the integration of water and food cycles in its native build up.” Regarding year-round use, the jury suggests that it would have been helpful to have a seasonal passive comfort strategy, as well as to include a strategy for using the displaced earth.