Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cantilevered Structures With Translucent Glass and Regional Timber Integration

Author:
Michael Adam Mc Kay
Cantilevered Structures With Translucent Glass and Regional Timber Integration

Project in-detail

Cantilevered forms constructed with regional timber and expansive glass create a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape in this versatile observation platform.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered sections provide expansive views while maintaining structural integrity.
02
Translucent glass panels enhance natural lighting and create visual connections with the environment.
03
Local timber sourcing emphasizes sustainability and ecological integration.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and a unique aesthetic while reducing maintenance.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes space usage and encourages versatile interior layouts.

### Overview

The "Fallen Tower," situated in an open landscape, explores the relationship between structural tension, materiality, and spatial experience. The design aims to reflect the dynamics of the environment, utilizing a unique architectural composition that highlights the interplay of form and the natural context.

### Spatial Composition and Structural Strategy

At the forefront of the design is a cantilevered structure that challenges conventional architectural forms, creating an impression of weightlessness. This approach emphasizes dynamic living spaces, effectively blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior environments. A central mass serves as the functional core, encircled by an open framework that invites expansive views and enhances engagement with the surroundings. The asymmetrical layout further encourages exploration, with various levels and platforms designed to facilitate interaction and contemplation.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material palette includes angular steel frames for structural strength, concrete for foundational stability, and expansive glass panels to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the outdoors. Possible wood elements may offer warmth and a tactile experience. The design is responsive to environmental conditions, featuring strategically placed openings and elevated platforms that optimize views and provide protection from the elements. This adaptability reinforces a commitment to sustainability and thoughtful engagement with the natural landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy