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Attic Spaces and Stained-Glass Windows in a Community Courtyard Design

Authors:
Argita Saliaj, Mikael Sarkisyants
Attic Spaces and Stained-Glass Windows in a Community Courtyard Design

Project in-detail

An attic space that invites local wildlife and stained-glass windows framing lake views enhance a community-focused complex designed for families and artists.
5 key facts about this project
01
An inner courtyard incorporates an old well, serving as a historical focal point.
02
Attic spaces allow for the presence of local wildlife, enhancing ecological integration.
03
Large stained-glass windows provide dynamic views of the surrounding lake.
04
Workshop areas are designed for flexible use, accommodating various artistic practices.
05
The layout emphasizes both communal and private spaces, fostering interaction and solitude.

The DACHA project is located beside a scenic lake, where the design takes inspiration from the natural environment. This residential complex serves families and artists, blending living areas with spaces dedicated to creative work. The concept focuses on creating a connection between indoor and outdoor experiences, all while embracing the calming beauty of the landscape.

Design Concept

The layout consists of three main components: beach verandas, residential cabins, and artist workshops. These elements are arranged to encourage both community interaction and personal reflection. The spatial organization helps create a supportive environment where creativity can flourish alongside family life.



Central Courtyard

At the center of the complex is an inner courtyard formed by two residential buildings and a workshop for artists. This space acts as a communal hub, where residents can gather and enjoy the outdoors. An old well within the courtyard serves as a historical reminder, connecting the present to the past. This area not only brings people together but also enhances the overall atmosphere, inviting occupants to relax and engage with nature.



Interior Arrangement

On the first floor, the design features an open layout that links communal spaces, such as a living room designed for family gatherings around a fireplace. Large stained-glass windows let in ample light and provide views of the lake, creating a warm and welcoming environment. The workshops play a crucial role, offering flexible spaces that cater to the artistic process and collaboration, highlighting the importance of functionality.



Unique Architectural Detail

A standout aspect of the design is the attic, which adds an element of curiosity and exploration. This space can be used for different purposes and allows local wildlife, like bats, to inhabit the area. This connection to nature is an important feature, emphasizing the relationship between the built environment and its surroundings. The choices made in the design reflect a focus on simplicity and practicality, contributing to the overall character of the complex.

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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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