Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Celestial Reflections Within Transparent Surfaces And Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Steven Lin, Justin Cheuk Yui Wan
Celestial Reflections Within Transparent Surfaces And Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and transparent surfaces, the design fosters a contemplative environment that invites users to engage with cosmic themes while serving as a reflective space for introspection and discovery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from sustainably sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and aesthetic warmth.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for unique light play and spatial variation.
05
Merges cosmic themes with architectural elements to promote introspective engagement.

## Overview

Located within a conceptual realm of cosmic exploration, the design engages themes of existence and spatial dynamics. The project is structured around four distinct visual frames that together explore the philosophical narrative of humanity's relationship with the universe. Each frame serves to illustrate critical reflections on introspection, isolation, and the pursuit of knowledge through engaging visual elements.

## Frame Analysis

### Individual Elements

The top left frame features a floating sphere, which may symbolize Earth or a galaxy, positioned above a transparent surface. Ethereal illumination enhances this element, while a starry background deepens the sense of infinity. In the top right frame, a viewer gazes at the sphere, now enhanced with light effects, depicting a dynamic interaction that suggests curiosity regarding the cosmos. The bottom center frame presents an abstract galaxy, characterized by swirling motions and graphical distortions, signifying gravitational forces and drawing attention to the quest for knowledge. The bottom right frame encapsulates a spherical Earth within a delineated grid, visually mapping the complexity of space and time through radial lines that suggest the vastness of existence.

### Conceptual Materiality

While the project does not delineate traditional construction materials, it conceptually utilizes digital techniques to evoke a sense of materiality. Transparent surfaces, reminiscent of glass or water, symbolize fluidity and reflection. Celestial graphics leverage high-definition digital rendering techniques, while the play of light and shadow across surfaces indicates a nuanced understanding of illumination, hinting at advanced material applications.

## Interdisciplinary Connections

This design distinguishes itself through its integration of architecture with digital art and philosophical inquiry. By linking existential themes to spatial design, it invites deeper reflection on the role of humanity within the vast cosmos. The narrative depth represented in the frames encourages viewers to engage personally with the visual elements, fostering moments of introspection. An innovative synthesis of visual storytelling transcends traditional architectural approaches, emphasizing both physical form and underlying philosophical exploration.

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