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Asymmetrical Concrete Form With Expansive Glass Facades and Integrated Rainwater Systems

Author:
Nicholas Edward Matthews
Asymmetrical Concrete Form With Expansive Glass Facades and Integrated Rainwater Systems

Project in-detail

The asymmetrical concrete structure, characterized by expansive glass facades and a focus on integrated rainwater management, serves as a compact living space uniquely designed for adaptability across diverse environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Asymmetrical roofline enhances rainwater management efficiency.
02
Expansive glass facades maximize natural light while providing scenic views.
03
Integrated radiant heating utilizes thermal mass of concrete for energy efficiency.
04
Charred wooden shingles reduce maintenance needs and improve fire resistance.
05
Flexible interior layout allows for multifunctional use of compact living spaces.

## Project Overview

The design titled "A Stone's Throw" embodies a contemporary approach to micro-housing, emphasizing adaptability to various environmental contexts. Intended for versatility, this structure can be positioned in diverse settings, including urban, rural, and natural landscapes. The primary objective is to provide compact living spaces that prioritize comfort and functionality while harmonizing with the surrounding environment.

## Architectural Composition

### Form and Aesthetic Integration
The design features an organic form characterized by curvilinear lines that establish a visual connection with the natural environment. An asymmetric roofline enhances the building's dynamic profile, facilitating an engaging interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. The architecture draws on local cultural aesthetics, integrating modern design with natural elements, which aids in the structure's blending into its environment.

### Material Selection
A diverse array of materials has been employed to balance aesthetic appeal with functional requirements. The primary structural walls utilize concrete for its durability and ability to form smooth shapes. Expansive glass facades foster transparency and blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Wood accents in the interior create warmth, contrasting with the contemporary concrete and glass. Additionally, the façade features ceramic granites that mimic natural stone while providing durability, and brick adds a tactile quality that connects traditional materiality with modern architecture.

## Innovations in Sustainability

### Environmental Strategies
Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design, incorporating advanced environmental technologies. A stacked ventilation system promotes natural cooling through vertical airflow, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. The inclusion of smart water management systems facilitates rainwater harvesting, effectively reducing environmental impact. Radiant heating utilizes the thermal properties of concrete, ensuring efficient warmth throughout colder months. These elements collectively underscore the commitment to ecological responsibility and resource efficiency in the design.

### Adaptable Design
"A Stone's Throw" features a spatial layout designed to maximize usability within a compact footprint of approximately 270 square feet, organized over two levels. The first floor includes essential living spaces such as a living area, kitchenette, dining space, wellness area, and storage, while the second floor accommodates flexible zones for resting or creative work. This spatial strategy supports a minimalist lifestyle and allows for personalization according to user needs, further enhancing the micro-home's adaptability to a variety of contexts.

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

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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

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