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Brick Barn Reimagined with Cozy Hygge Elements and Integrated Courtyards

Author:
Rodrigo Mazari Armida
Brick Barn Reimagined with Cozy Hygge Elements and Integrated Courtyards

Project in-detail

Reimagining a repurposed stone barn, the design integrates cozy hygge elements and functional courtyards, creating inviting communal and private spaces for users to connect with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed barn creates a central communal gathering area.
02
Cozy hygge-inspired design enhances comfort and warmth.
03
Partially sunken amenities reduce visual impact on the landscape.
04
Symmetrical layout frames nature views from multiple angles.
05
Integrated courtyards promote interaction with outdoor elements.

The design is set in a natural landscape that blends built environments with their surroundings. The concept revolves around the idea of making nature an integral part of architecture. Through the careful placement of small pavilions, the project seeks to erase the traditional boundaries between the indoor spaces and the outdoor environment, encouraging a closer connection between people and nature.

Repurposed Barn

A prominent feature of the design is the repurposed stone barn, which has been adapted into a communal space. This area includes dining and kitchen facilities along with both interior and exterior courtyards. By retaining the original walls, the design respects the barn's history while creating a welcoming space that invites social interaction. A newly constructed pavilion defines the functional areas, and an added roof links different activities throughout the barn.

Amenities Area

The amenities section is designed to blend into the landscape, partially sunk into the ground to minimize its visibility. Spaces such as the sauna and main event hall are positioned to offer views of the natural surroundings. This layout creates a sense of tranquility, while the isolation room serves as a private area for reflection. Courtyards connect various spaces and provide opportunities for users to interact with changing weather and natural elements.

Guest Bedrooms and Host's House

Guest bedrooms and the host's house draw inspiration from the Nordic idea of comfort and warmth. These buildings act as simple frames for nature, built on a strong brick foundation that provides stability. Above the brick, a light wooden structure with wood and glass panels allows for openness, creating a connection with the outside environment and enhancing the overall appearance.

In this design, communal spaces and private retreats coexist to benefit users. The architecture shows a clear respect for the natural landscape while providing inviting and comfortable interiors that encourage engagement with the site.

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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
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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