Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Artisan Living Space

Authors:
Qingyang Jia, Xin Qiao, Weitong Zhao, Zhaocheng Deng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Artisan Living Space

Project in-detail

Using charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, the design crafts an inviting artisan community that integrates living spaces with creative studios for a seamless cultural experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates artisan workspaces directly within living areas, fostering collaboration and community engagement.
02
Employs charred wooden shingles as a nod to traditional craftsmanship while ensuring durability and weather resistance.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and promote sustainability through local sourcing.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation, enhancing the interior experience.
05
Incorporates a central courtyard that serves as a multifunctional space for community interactions and cultural events.
The Lumina Courtyard project exemplifies a thoughtful fusion of contemporary architecture with traditional craftsmanship, situated in the historical locale of Shiyan along Business Street in China. This architectural endeavor aims to create a vibrant space that not only accommodates modern living but also celebrates the rich artisanal heritage of the area. The project stands as a testament to the possibilities of merging functionality with cultural significance, emphasizing a communal atmosphere that encourages interaction between artisans, residents, and visitors.

At its core, the Lumina Courtyard serves multiple functions, distinguishing itself through a creative layout that integrates living and workspace. The design is strategically organized to foster collaboration and engagement, with dedicated areas for craftsmanship, retail experiences, and residential living. This thoughtful spatial arrangement cultivates an environment that invites community participation, allowing artisans to display their work while engaging with the public in a shared social setting. The courtyard functions as a central hub, enhancing outdoor living and forming a backdrop for gatherings and cultural events, promoting a sense of belonging among occupants and visitors alike.

The architectural details reflect a deep consideration of both aesthetic and practical concerns. The design incorporates large windows and thoughtfully placed skylights, facilitating natural light to permeate the interiors, an important aspect that enhances the living experience while nurturing the creative processes occurring within the studios. This light-filled atmosphere not only supports the physical tasks of skilled artisans but also creates an inviting ambiance for residents and passersby, further bridging the gap between artistry and everyday life.

Material selection plays a critical role in the overall architectural narrative of the Lumina Courtyard. The use of traditional clay bricks for the structural walls resonates with the local vernacular and underscores the commitment to preserving regional craftsmanship. This is coupled with warm timber elements in beams and flooring, which add a rustic charm that invites comfort and familiarity. Natural stone is employed in the courtyard flooring, providing durability while intertwining the project with its geographical context. The contrast of modern glass facades in the studio spaces introduces a contemporary flair, enhancing perceptions of openness and accessibility while ensuring energy efficiency. Additionally, subtle metal accents contribute to the structure's overall industrial aesthetic, balancing the earthy tones of natural materials.

One of the project’s unique design approaches lies in its dual-purpose spaces that blur the lines between work and home. Artisans have the opportunity to live where they create, fostering a deeper connection to their craft. This integration not only enhances the creative process but also invites visitors to observe and engage with the work, facilitating a communal experience that is often absent in conventional settings. The design encourages an organic flow of daily life where art becomes part of the public realm, thus enriching the cultural fabric of Shiyan.

The Lumina Courtyard is inherently sustainable, prioritizing local materials and traditional construction methods that resonate deeply with the historical context of the area. This thoughtful approach to design not only supports environmental stewardship but also instills a sense of pride in the local community. By allowing the architectural narrative to unfold through materials and construction techniques familiar to the region, Lumina Courtyard demonstrates a profound respect for its cultural heritage while addressing the needs of contemporary society.

In essence, the Lumina Courtyard project represents a meaningful intersection of tradition and modernity, offering a glimpse into a potential future where architecture serves not just as a backdrop to life, but as an active participant in the cultural and social narratives of its inhabitants. To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, where the intricate details and thoughtful considerations behind this unique architectural endeavor are unveiled.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16544 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