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Three Walls and a Garden: A Multipurpose Residence Integrating Living, Retreat, and Landscape

Authors:
Petter Elverum, Ahmet Çam
Three Walls and a Garden: A Multipurpose Residence Integrating Living, Retreat, and Landscape

Project in-detail

The project explores the relationship between structure, landscape, and contemplation through a minimalist yet deeply contextual design. Anchored by three defining walls, the project articulates space with clarity and restraint, fostering a thoughtful dialogue between built form and its agricultural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features local stone in construction, ensuring contextual harmony with the surrounding landscape.
04
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for reduced environmental impact and efficient assembly.
05
Includes a dedicated prayer room, reflecting the cultural significance of the community.

Conceived as a residence that unites communal gathering, private living, and spiritual retreat, the project establishes a cohesive architectural language rooted in minimalism and environmental awareness. Its design intertwines functional clarity with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, creating a setting where interior and exterior spaces are in constant dialogue.

Spatial Organization and Garden Integration

The layout is defined by three primary walls that structure the residence and create a clear relationship with the adjoining garden. This spatial framework allows for fluid transitions between communal and private areas while maintaining a sense of intimacy where needed. The central garden serves multiple purposes—providing a visual focal point, a space for relaxation and social activity, and a direct link to the natural environment. Pathways are aligned with existing site patterns, respecting the continuity of agricultural practices and preserving the native landscape.

Material Palette and Environmental Response

The project employs local stone and wood to reflect regional craftsmanship and ground the residence in its context. Durable concrete provides structural stability, while warm timber elements soften the interior and contribute to a low environmental footprint. Vertical and horizontal planes are carefully composed to capture changing patterns of light and shadow, and large openings frame views toward the garden and surrounding olive fields. Through its simplicity, material honesty, and sensitivity to site, the residence achieves a balanced relationship between architecture, nature, and daily life.

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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
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