Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Spaces in a Solitary Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Diogo Veloso, Ana Limbado, Ana Raposo, Ruben Estevao
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Spaces in a Solitary Mountain Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass openings, the design creates a harmonious dialogue between natural elements and its mountainous setting, serving as an intimate residential retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
02
Features expansive glass openings to maximize natural light while providing panoramic views of the surroundings.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and improved sustainability.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame shape to harmonize with the mountainous topography.
05
Strategically oriented to optimize passive solar heating throughout the year.

## Architectural Design Analysis Report: The Grotto Diary Project

### Overview
The Grotto Diary is situated in a mountainous region characterized by rugged textures and fluid topographies. The project explores the relationship between built form and the natural landscape, emphasizing themes of solitude and human experience. Through a carefully orchestrated spatial experience, the design encourages introspection and connection with the environment.

### Spatial Strategy
The design integrates a personal journey into its architectural narrative, with entry pathways and open spaces that guide visitors through varying spatial conditions. High ceilings and strategically placed light openings create expansive areas, while lower, intimate spaces offer moments of solitude. This variety fosters a dynamic user experience, allowing for transitions between grand architectural gestures and private reflections.

### Material Characteristics
The selected material palette contributes to both the aesthetic and sensory experience of the project. Concrete forms establish durability, while wood elements add warmth and tactile richness. Glass is employed to enhance transparency and visual connections with the surrounding landscape, creating a fluid relationship between interior and exterior. Stone surfaces reflect the site's natural ruggedness, further reinforcing the integration of architecture with its environment. The interplay of materials and light throughout the design enhances emotional engagement, promoting a unique spatial experience reflective of the narrative intent.

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