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Circular Atrium Surrounded by Polycarbonate Panels in a Tranquil Mountain Setting

Author:
Tianqi Huang
Circular Atrium Surrounded by Polycarbonate Panels in a Tranquil Mountain Setting
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A circular atrium encased in polycarbonate panels enhances natural light while promoting a sense of openness and privacy in a residential setting at the foot of Tanglang Mountain.
5 key facts about this project
01
A circular atrium serves as the main light source for the interior.
02
Thin columns enhance the verticality and spatial clarity throughout the design.
03
Circular polycarbonate panels surround the perimeter, allowing natural light while maintaining privacy.
04
Functional rooms are arranged to form a central circular corridor, promoting seamless flow.
05
Strategic window placement softens indoor lighting and enhances outdoor views.

Set at the foot of Tanglang Mountain in the Nanshan District of Shenzhen, the design seeks to create a unique atmosphere that feels light and open. The concept revolves around the idea of obscuring direction to encourage movement and curiosity within the space. By integrating the natural surroundings, the design invites users to experience their environment more fully without traditional limitations imposed by architecture.

Conceptual Framework

A circular plan form serves as the foundation of the design, enabling fluid movement throughout the interior spaces. This shape eliminates rigid pathways, allowing occupants to navigate organically. At the core lies a circular atrium, which acts as the main source of natural light and serves as a welcoming focal point. This atrium not only brightens the interior but also fosters a sense of community among users by inviting them to gather.

Spatial Arrangement

Rooms are arranged with careful consideration of their functions, creating a circular corridor that connects various spaces. This layout supports easy circulation while allowing for individual areas to retain their identity. Thin columns line the circular gallery, adding visual interest and contributing to the clear separation between the atrium and the surrounding spaces. This design choice enhances the overall aesthetic while maintaining the open feeling of the environment.

Light and Interaction

Windows designed to be crosswise let in softer light, creating pleasant indoor conditions. French windows are positioned thoughtfully to maximize views and enhance the connection with the outside. This careful placement balances privacy with openness, making it easy for occupants to enjoy both indoor and outdoor experiences. The perimeter of the house is surrounded by circular polycarbonate panels, which protect privacy while still allowing views, keeping a lively dialogue between interior and exterior.

The design emphasizes the relationship between light, flow, and space. Each element plays a role in creating an inviting atmosphere, where careful planning and execution encourage a sense of discovery and connection. Through its thoughtful approach, it provides a refined experience that enhances daily life for its users.

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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

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