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Biophilic Urban Oasis with Natural Wood and Sustainable Materials for Community Engagement

Authors:
alejandra cortes, Emily Chen, Gabee Cho
Biophilic Urban Oasis with Natural Wood and Sustainable Materials for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Nestled within an urban landscape, the biophilic design incorporates natural wood and sustainable materials, creating a flexible community hub that fosters artistic expression and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and spatial flow.
02
Features a rooftop meadow that integrates greenery with urban art spaces.
03
Incorporates locally sourced materials to reinforce community ties.
04
Includes flexible artist studios adaptable for various creative practices.
05
Employs biophilic principles to enhance visitor experience and well-being.

## Overview

Located in Bangkok, Thailand, this architectural design integrates the vibrant urban culture with a dedicated space for artistic expression. The project's intent is to create a versatile environment that serves both local artists and the public, fostering community engagement while providing a retreat from the city's busyness. The structure combines functionality with visual appeal, aligning with the artistic spirit of the area.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design prioritizes a seamless connection between public and private spaces, facilitating a dynamic visitor experience. The layout incorporates open floor plans in indoor areas, including artist studios and exhibition spaces, allowing for various artistic activities and interactions. Outdoor spaces, such as a rooftop meadow and community market area, provide contrasting environments for relaxation and cultural exchange. This architecture promotes a progressive flow from the bustling streets into immersive artistic environments, encouraging community participation.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Material choices are integral to achieving the project’s objectives, emphasizing durability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete serves as the structural backbone, while extensive glass elements enhance transparency and encourage visual engagement with the cityscape. Warmth and intimacy are introduced through wood accents in the interiors, and natural stone adds a sense of permanence. The strategic incorporation of greenery throughout the design supports biophilic principles, contributing to both environmental sustainability and an enhanced visitor experience. This thoughtful material application underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and community integration.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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