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Basswood Facade and Steel Structure with Elevating Spatial Dynamics

Authors:
Jiaming 'jamie' Sun, Chen Ding, Ye Su
Basswood Facade and Steel Structure with Elevating Spatial Dynamics

Project in-detail

A gradual transition in stair dimensions complements a basswood façade and steel structure to create a dynamic spatial experience, all designed to enhance user engagement within the building.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gradual changes in stair dimensions enhance the spatial experience.
02
The design emphasizes a strong separation between interior and exterior environments.
03
Basswood is integrated with metal connectors for structural stability.
04
Entrance layout is designed to disrupt traditional navigational patterns.
05
User engagement is prioritized through thoughtful spatial arrangements.

The architectural design explores the theme of separation between interior and exterior spaces, taking inspiration from urban settings such as Delicious New York. The design aims to engage users through careful spatial planning, while also attracting visual interest from those observing the structure. By creating distinct environments, the work fosters curiosity and interaction, presenting a compelling narrative in architecture.

Conceptual Framework

The aim is to establish a clear distinction between the exterior façade and the interior spaces. This separation creates an appealing experience for people looking at the building from the outside. At the same time, it changes how users navigate within the structure. By focusing on this visual and spatial boundary, the design highlights the relationship between the building and its occupants, encouraging exploration and active engagement.

Spatial Dynamics

Key to the design is the thoughtful manipulation of the stair slab dimensions as people move up through the building. The gradual change in size adds complexity to the spatial experience, turning the staircase into more than just a means of getting from one level to another. As users ascend, they are invited to engage with the space, making the process both functional and visually interesting.

Entrance Arrangement

The entrance is arranged to intentionally disrupt usual patterns of movement. This design choice challenges how visitors commonly orient themselves in architectural spaces. Instead of following predictable paths, people are encouraged to explore, creating a sense of disorientation that promotes curiosity. The unique layout invites occupants to navigate their surroundings mindfully, increasing their involvement with the architecture.

Material Integration

Materials used in the design include basswood with metal connectors along with a steel structure that connects to the interior framework. Additionally, basswood with wood joints provides a consistent aesthetic that brings together natural and industrial components. These materials are selected not only for their structural qualities but also for their alignment with the overall theme of separation, enhancing the overall experience within the space.

The ascending dimensions of the staircase stand out as it guides users upward, turning an ordinary movement into an experience of increasing complexity that encourages people to engage with their surroundings in new ways.

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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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