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Catenary Arches and Organic Ornamentation in an Artist Residence

Authors:
Anif Sucipta Nasution, Muhammad Faiz Rafif Lubis, Tutilia Manalu, Firman Eddy -
Catenary Arches and Organic Ornamentation in an Artist Residence
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Utilizing catenary arches and inspired by organic forms, the structure seamlessly integrates with its natural landscape to create a collaborative space for artists.
5 key facts about this project
01
Catenary arches provide both structural support and aesthetic flow throughout the complex.
02
Ornamentation draws directly from natural forms, enhancing the connection to the environment.
03
The layout prioritizes flexibility, encouraging collaboration among artists.
04
Existing vegetation is integrated into the design, promoting sustainability.
05
Natural light is maximized to create inviting and energizing spaces.

The project located in Puebla de Fantova, Spain, serves as an artist residence and educational complex that carefully connects to its natural surroundings. The design draws inspiration from the organic forms and principles that Antoni Gaudí championed, resulting in a thoughtful balance between constructed spaces and the lush environment. The aim is to create an atmosphere that fosters creativity and collaboration among artists while being mindful of sustainability and the landscape.

Structural Innovation

Catenary arches are a prominent feature in the design, playing an essential role in the stability of the buildings. These arches effectively reduce stress by using a shape that allows weight to distribute evenly. They are integrated not only in the structural framework but also in the building façades, contributing visual interest and a sense of flow that complements the natural topography.



Integration with Nature

Natural elements significantly influence the design approach, with details inspired by organic shapes. Features resembling plant vines and other natural forms enhance the overall visual experience. This decorative approach strengthens the connection to the environment, allowing the buildings to fit harmoniously alongside the rich vegetation of the site, which enriches the experience of visitors and residents alike.



Material Selection

A careful selection of materials enhances both the functionality and appearance of the building. Concrete beams, wooden frames, concrete columns, glass windows, stone walls, and steel frames are used throughout the structure. These choices provide the necessary durability while contributing to the architectural character of the complex. The aim is to create spaces that are both practical and visually appealing, ensuring the longevity of the structures under various environmental conditions.



Spatial Organization

The layout is designed to promote flexibility, which is important for an artist residency and educational space. Public and private areas are arranged thoughtfully to encourage interaction and collaboration among artists. This approach makes the environment adaptable for a range of artistic practices, facilitating inspiration and creativity.



The combination of catenary arches with organic motifs shapes a design that blends structure and nature. Natural light filters through the spaces, enhancing the experience for everyone who uses the complex. This connection to the landscape is fundamental, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages artistic exploration.

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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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