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A Courtyard Home Featuring Sliding Glass and Concrete Masonry for Enhanced Indoor-Outdoor Living

Authors:
James Baldwin Wood, Conor Vincent Byrne
A Courtyard Home Featuring Sliding Glass and Concrete Masonry for Enhanced Indoor-Outdoor Living

Project in-detail

Sliding glass walls and concrete masonry define an adaptable courtyard home that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a central courtyard that enhances privacy while maximizing natural light.
02
Constructed with durable concrete masonry units for thermal efficiency and longevity.
03
Employs sliding glass walls to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Features a flexible layout that adapts to evolving occupant needs throughout the day.
05
Utilizes native landscaping to promote ecological balance and enhance outdoor aesthetics.
The "House in a Courtyard" is a contemporary residential project that embodies the principles of innovative architecture. It serves as a modern reinterpretation of the traditional courtyard home, focusing on creating harmonious connections between indoor and outdoor spaces. The project emphasizes functionality, privacy, and natural light, making it adaptable to various living situations.

The layout features essential living areas, including a kitchen, living space, bedroom, and bathroom, all organized around a central courtyard. This design promotes access to natural light and views while maintaining privacy within the enclosed environment. The integration of expansive glass panels allows for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas, reinforcing this connection.

Innovative Design Approaches

One notable aspect of this project is its adaptive layout, which can transition between open and closed configurations. This flexibility accommodates different needs throughout the day, allowing for both social interaction and intimate gatherings. The courtyard space serves as a central focal point, providing an area for relaxation and outdoor activities, thereby extending the usable footprint of the home.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project's design. The primary structure comprises concrete masonry units, offering durability and thermal mass capabilities. Steel elements support the roof structure, allowing for clean sightlines and contributing to an overall lightweight aesthetic. The use of glass throughout the design not only enhances natural light but also creates transparency, connecting the occupants with their surroundings. Natural materials such as wood and stone are strategically incorporated to introduce warmth and texture, contrasting with the more industrial elements.

Sustainable considerations are embedded in the design, as the expansive use of glass minimizes reliance on artificial lighting during the day, while the courtyard fosters outdoor living and greenery. The incorporation of native plants within the courtyard not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes local biodiversity and ecological balance.

To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas that define the "House in a Courtyard," readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for comprehensive insights. Engaging with these elements will provide a clearer understanding of how this project integrates innovative architectural approaches with practical living solutions.
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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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