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Bio-Luminescent Experience Within Circular Forms at Coastal Villa

Authors:
Jody Lin, Zoya Chaudary
Bio-Luminescent Experience Within Circular Forms at Coastal Villa
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Emphasizing bio-luminescence and fluid circular forms, the villa merges seamlessly with its coastal environment to create a unique residence that fosters a profound connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bio-luminescent algae illuminate the villa at night, enhancing the natural atmosphere.
02
Circular architectural forms reflect the shape of coastal algae, connecting structure to nature.
03
Skylights and brise soleils maximize daylight while minimizing artificial light usage.
04
Strategic placement of living areas allows for uninterrupted views of glowing waters.
05
The design emphasizes sustainability by reducing light pollution and promoting ecological awareness.

The Luciferin Villa is located on a secluded beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico. It addresses the growing issue of light pollution by allowing for clear views of the night sky. The design promotes an atmosphere that encourages stargazing and observing celestial bodies. Natural elements play a crucial role in the villa’s concept, which connects the structure to its coastal surroundings.

Design Developed from Nature

The design is inspired by the bio-luminescent algae found in the waters off Vieques. These algae emit light when oxygen is introduced through water movement. This natural process influenced the villa’s shape and overall structure. The fluid lines reflect the organic forms of the algae, creating a connection to the natural landscape and enhancing the visual appeal of the building.

Utilizing Natural Light

The villa is oriented to make the most of daylight. Large skylights and brise soleils formed by overlapping circular shapes allow sunlight to fill the interior spaces. This design reduces reliance on artificial lighting, providing a bright and welcoming environment. The layout encourages a strong connection between the indoor areas and the outdoor landscape.

Engaging with the Coastal Environment

Positioned along the coast, the villa takes advantage of the unique bio-luminescence at night. Key living areas are strategically placed to offer views of the glowing waters. This invites residents to appreciate the natural beauty just outside. The design fosters a profound appreciation for the surrounding ecosystem and enhances the living experience.

Committing to Sustainability

The approach reflects a dedication to sustainable practices. By minimizing light pollution and optimizing energy use, the villa serves as a practical example of how to incorporate ecological considerations in home design. The design’s organic forms and thoughtful layout create a dialogue between the structure and its environment, highlighting the importance of sustainability in modern living.

Circular forms extend outward from the center, echoing the movement of algae in the water. This visual element strengthens the connection between the villa and its natural setting, creating a unique residential experience.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
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MICROHOME
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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

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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