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Circular Aperture Highlighting Natural Light in Sustainable Stone and Wood Design

Author:
Aude Mazelin
Circular Aperture Highlighting Natural Light in Sustainable Stone and Wood Design

Project in-detail

A circular aperture invites natural light deep within sustainably constructed stone and wood volumes, enhancing the user experience while serving as an intimate residential retreat on the rugged terrain of Amorgos.
5 key facts about this project
01
A circular aperture serves as the focal point, enhancing natural light throughout the interior.
02
Local stone is used extensively, grounding the structure within the island's landscape.
03
Cave-like vaults create intimate spaces that offer a retreat from open communal areas.
04
The design integrates terraced landscaping, reinforcing ecological sustainability.
05
Large glass panels provide unobstructed panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

## Overview
Located on the island of Amorgos, Greece, the project exemplifies the integration of built structures with the natural landscape. It is designed to reflect local cultural heritage while prioritizing ecological sensitivity. The approach focuses on materiality, spatial organization, and adaptation to the site's unique topography.

## Spatial Strategy
The layout consists of multiple distinct levels that offer varied experiences while maintaining overall cohesion. Level A features outdoor living areas and communal spaces, inviting social interaction amidst views of the Aegean Sea. Level B includes cave-like vaults, providing intimate retreats that contrast with the more vibrant outdoor settings. Level C serves as the primary entrance, incorporating essential service areas while ensuring integration with the surrounding environment.

## Materiality and Ecological Considerations
Materials used in the project reinforce its connection to the site and emphasize sustainability. Local stone reflects the island’s geological characteristics, while textured concrete provides durability. Large glass panels offer panoramic views and enhance the indoors' relationship with the outdoors. Wood is employed in detailing and furnishings, contributing warmth to the overall design. Landscaping incorporates indigenous flora, minimizing ecological disruption and aligning with sustainable architectural practices. The design includes a distinctive circular aperture that allows natural light penetration, creating dynamic lighting conditions throughout the space.

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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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