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Candle-Lit Spaces Reinforcing Timber Warmth in a Two-Story Structure

Author:
Mau tang Fung
Candle-Lit Spaces Reinforcing Timber Warmth in a Two-Story Structure

Project in-detail

With candle-lit interiors and wooden structures that evoke the form of a bird's nest, the design offers a unique approach to sustainable living in a two-story configuration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Candle illumination replaces electric lighting, promoting a connection to nature.
02
The structure adopts the form of a bird's nest, influencing both shape and layout.
03
Wood is utilized for thermal comfort, staying warm in winter and cool in summer.
04
Prefabricated components streamline construction and reduce project costs.
05
The foundation system elevates the building to accommodate uneven terrain.

The design draws its inspiration from the form of a bird's nest, resulting in a two-story structure that interacts with its natural surroundings. This building emphasizes sustainability by using candle lighting instead of electric illumination. The choice fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging a connection with the natural environment and offering a unique experience for its users.

Conceptual Framework

The project's main concept centers around the shape and function of a bird's nest, which informs both the visual appearance and practical design. This natural influence creates a link between the building and the surrounding landscape, promoting a harmonious living space that is environmentally friendly. The layout not only serves functional needs but also creates a sense of comfort and safety within its walls.

Material Selection

Wood is the primary material used throughout the structure, recognized for its many benefits. The material helps manage indoor temperatures, staying warm in winter and cool in summer. This choice of wood emphasizes the building's connection to nature and enhances the comfort of those inside. The tactile and natural qualities of wood contribute to the overall experience of the space.

Construction Methodology

The project utilizes prefabricated components for its roof, walls, and floors. This method streamlines construction and reduces the need for unnecessary structural supports. Solid profiles are used in the load-bearing frameworks, ensuring a stable and robust construction. By employing these efficient methods, the project minimizes costs and speeds up the installation process, allowing for quicker completion.

Site Considerations

The location presents challenges due to uneven terrain, necessitating a foundation that raises the structure to a level position. This practical solution ensures the building remains stable and usable, adapting well to its environment.

An interesting element of the design is the ability to create large open spaces while still allowing ample natural light. The candle lighting not only enhances the warmth of the interior but also sets a distinctive atmosphere that differentiates the experience within this space.

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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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