Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Central Column Supporting Photovoltaic Glass and Rainwater Systems in Circular Residential Design

Central Column Supporting Photovoltaic Glass and Rainwater Systems in Circular Residential Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
A central column integrates energy-generating photovoltaic glass and rainwater systems within a circular form, optimizing sustainable living in a contemporary residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central structural column houses essential utilities while supporting the radial design.
02
Photovoltaic glass is integrated into the facade for energy efficiency.
03
Rainwater harvesting systems are seamlessly incorporated into the building structure.
04
A circular layout promotes unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Prefabricated components reduce construction time and environmental impact.

### Project Overview

The Ring House, located within a carefully considered landscape, integrates contemporary design with sustainable practices to create a cohesive residential environment. The structure's circular form reflects a commitment to functionality while fostering an intrinsic connection with its surroundings. With an emphasis on energy efficiency and self-sufficiency, the design seeks to unify users with nature and address modern living requirements.

### Design Philosophy and Spatial Organization

The design philosophy centers around the concepts of "funnel" and "diversion," optimizing the flow of rainwater and electricity through the structure. Organized around a central column, the layout promotes a clear spatial hierarchy while facilitating movement and interaction among inhabitants. This radial organization enhances the living experience, allowing for flexible and efficient use of space. The layout strategically delineates functional areas—such as dining, cooking, and sleeping zones—while maximizing access to natural light and ventilation through abundant glazing.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Features

Materiality is central to the Ring House’s design integrity, incorporating a range of thoughtfully selected components that enhance both functionality and aesthetic coherence. Concrete serves as the foundational element, providing stability, while steel plate profiles form the outer shell, balancing strength with a modern appearance. The use of power generation glass integrates photovoltaic cells, enhancing the structure’s energy efficiency. Additionally, galvanized steel fixtures contribute to durability, complementing the residence's natural context. Innovative systems for rainwater collection and energy generation emphasize the project's commitment to sustainability, ensuring operational independence while minimizing environmental impact.

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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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