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Cantilevered Spaces Enhanced by Natural Light and Textured Alumina in a Communal Retreat

Author:
Yeji Hyun
Cantilevered Spaces Enhanced by Natural Light and Textured Alumina in a Communal Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing cantilevered forms and textured alumina, the design fosters a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, creating a communal retreat that prioritizes social interaction and tranquility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features specialized bent A-frame design that optimizes structural integrity and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and sustainability.
04
Strategically oriented windows maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
05
Includes open-plan communal spaces that foster social interaction among guests.

### Project Overview

OLHADA is a guesthouse designed to foster community interaction while accommodating individual relaxation. Situated in a landscape that promotes engagement with the surrounding environment, the design emphasizes the concept of the "eyeline," which guides user experience and spatial organization. This framework aims to create a space where diverse individuals can connect, share, and enjoy their surroundings.

### Spatial Organization and Experience

The spatial configuration features an open layout that encourages movement and interaction among users. Distinct areas are dedicated to communal activities, with living rooms and dining spaces designed to facilitate socialization through low barriers and easy access. In contrast, the private bedrooms are crafted to offer tranquility, utilizing muted colors and soft textures to create a serene atmosphere. Generous window placements provide ample natural light while framing views of the external landscape, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection

A thoughtfully chosen palette of materials plays a significant role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of OLHADA. Concrete serves as the structural backbone, combining durability with modern elegance. Alumina wood is employed for cladding and interior finishes, imparting warmth and a natural ambiance. Glass is strategically used to maximize natural light and create visual connections between the interior and the outdoors. Additionally, brick accents introduce texture and character, further enriching the sensory experience of the space. These materials not only fulfill structural requirements but also support a sustainable design ethos, contributing to the overall integrity of the guesthouse.

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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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