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Biophilic Design With Corten Steel Emphasis and Generous Glazing in a Lakeside Residence

Author:
Falera Catharina Maria Van Balen
Biophilic Design With Corten Steel Emphasis and Generous Glazing in a Lakeside Residence

Project in-detail

Crafted with corten steel and extensive glazing, the residence seamlessly integrates with its lakeside setting while providing a functional living space that emphasizes biophilic design principles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a bent A-frame design to optimize snow shedding.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and thermal performance.
04
Features expansive glazing for panoramic views and natural light penetration.
05
Integrates biophilic design elements to strengthen connection with the surrounding landscape.

### Project Overview

Located in a temperate climate characterized by snowy conditions and a tranquil lake surrounded by abundant tree cover, the architectural design prioritizes a functional and contextual relationship with the natural landscape. This approach aims to create comfortable living spaces that enhance residents' connection to their environment while adhering to contemporary architectural principles.

### Spatial Configuration

The design features a horizontal form that extends along the lake's edge, organized into distinct segments that accommodate different residential units and communal spaces. Large, rectangular windows throughout the structure ensure unobstructed views and ample natural light, bridging the interior with the scenic outdoors. Detailed floor plans illustrate a multi-layered spatial strategy promoting fluid transitions between various functional areas, emphasizing open-concept living while facilitating community interaction.

### Material Selection

The project’s material palette is carefully curated to resonate with the surrounding environment while ensuring durability and aesthetic integration. Key materials include:

1. **Wood** – Utilized for structural elements and cladding, providing warmth and a sustainable choice.
2. **Glass** – Employed for expansive windows, enhancing visual transparency and light admission.
3. **Concrete** – Selected for its strength and foundational support.
4. **Corten Steel** – Possibly used in the roofing or facade, this material echoes the natural color palette and offers resilience.

This diverse selection of materials contributes to a cohesive dialogue between the built form and its natural context, reinforcing the design's ethos of ecological mindfulness and sustainable architecture.

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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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