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Biophilic Design Integrating Glass Walls and Concrete Finishes with a Tennis-Inspired Layout

Author:
Nikola Ilic
Biophilic Design Integrating Glass Walls and Concrete Finishes with a Tennis-Inspired Layout

Project in-detail

A tennis-inspired layout harmoniously blends with expansive glass walls and durable concrete finishes, creating a residence that fosters wellness and interaction with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
A tennis court-inspired layout promotes active living and interaction.
02
Extensive use of glass provides seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.
03
A cantilevered roof design creates shaded outdoor gathering areas.
04
Biophilic landscaping incorporates native plant species for sustainability.
05
Concrete finishes integrate durability with modern aesthetics.

## Project Overview

The Metatennis project, designed for Novak Djokovic, aligns residential living with the sport of tennis within a verdant landscape. Located in a yet-to-be-specified area, the design serves as both a tribute to Djokovic's athletic career and an exploration of contemporary architectural principles. The intent focuses on creating a harmonious blend of living spaces and athletic environment, emphasizing an emotional connection between architecture and its occupants.

## Material and Spatial Strategy

### Materiality

The design employs a thoughtful selection of materials that balance modern aesthetics with functional considerations. Key components include:

- **Concrete**, which provides structural integrity and contrasts with the organic forms found in the surrounding nature.
- **Glass**, utilized extensively to maximize natural light and facilitate views of the landscape, thereby enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection.
- **Steel**, used as a framing element, adds structural support while contributing to a minimalist visual appeal.

These materials were selected not only for their performance but also for their ability to create a dialogue with the natural environment, reinforcing the project's conceptual objectives.

### Spatial Configuration

The internal layout of the residence promotes an intuitive flow, with communal and private areas clearly defined. Central to the design is a spacious living room that interacts with the dining area and kitchen, fostering social engagement while also providing private spaces for relaxation. The elongated horizontal form of the house mirrors the proportions of a tennis court, situating the structure within its lush surroundings. Additionally, the cantilevered roof creates shaded outdoor areas that extend the living spaces, further merging architecture with nature and enhancing usability.

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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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