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Circular Atrium Enclosed in Polycarbonate Panels with Fluid Space Experience

Author:
Tianqi Huang
Circular Atrium Enclosed in Polycarbonate Panels with Fluid Space Experience

Project in-detail

Enclosed by circular polycarbonate panels, the design features a central atrium that invites natural light while creating a fluid spatial experience, serving as a unique residential space in the landscape of Nanshan.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural light enters through strategically placed crosswise windows that soften illumination inside.
02
The circular atrium at the core promotes fluid movement and a sense of openness throughout the home.
03
Polycarbonate panels surround the perimeter, balancing privacy with visual engagement with the landscape.
04
Thin columns enhance the height of the atrium while creating a rhythmic visual connection.
05
Functional rooms are arranged to naturally enclose a central circular corridor, optimizing space usage.

The project is situated on a lawn at the foot of Tanglang Mountain in Nanshan District, Shenzhen. This location offers a blend of abundant sunlight and gentle natural light filtered through surrounding trees. The design responds to these environmental conditions by creating a residence that emphasizes a light and ambiguous spatial atmosphere, aiming to reduce the conventional sense of direction typically present in standard architectural layouts.

Core Concept

The design employs a circular plan form, which encourages fluid movement and connections within the spaces. This shape avoids strict directional cues, fostering an experience that invites exploration rather than following defined pathways. At the center, a circular atrium acts as both the main light source and focal point of the residence. This element allows natural light to permeate the surrounding areas, creating a lively brightness that enhances the overall ambiance.

Spatial Arrangement

Rooms are organized according to their specific functions, which leads to a natural enclosure of a central circular corridor. This arrangement supports efficiency and ease of movement throughout the home. Thin columns positioned along the circular gallery enrich the relationship between the atrium and interior spaces. Their vertical lines draw the eye upward, emphasizing the height of the atrium while drawing attention to the overall cohesiveness of the design.

Light and Interaction

Crosswise windows serve to soften and diffuse light, enhancing the desired atmospheric quality within. French windows are placed where necessary, allowing for interactions between the interior and exterior environments. This design choice creates visual connections with the landscape, promoting a sense of openness and accessibility.

Perimeter Design

The perimeter is enclosed with circular polycarbonate panels, which provide privacy while still allowing for views of the surrounding area. These panels help create a balance between seclusion and interaction, enabling inhabitants to engage lightly with the outdoor world from inside. The result is a living space that blends its interiors and exteriors, fostering a connection with nature.

The design culminates in an intricately crafted atrium that stands as both a source of light and a gathering area, reflecting the essence of the residence through its spacious volumes and fluid connections.

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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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