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Circular Community Spaces Enhanced by Thermal Glazing and Sustainable Insulation

Author:
Junaid Babanya
Circular Community Spaces Enhanced by Thermal Glazing and Sustainable Insulation

Project in-detail

The circular design utilizes binary fission concepts and features thermal glazing alongside sustainable insulation, creating a community-focused residence that promotes social interaction and well-being for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes binary fission concept to inform circular layout.
02
Incorporates thermal glazing for optimal natural light and energy efficiency.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes diverse communal spaces that encourage social interaction.
05
Employs sustainable insulation materials for enhanced climate control.

### Overview
Located in Barreiros, Portugal, the elderly home emphasizes inclusive living aimed at providing comfort and fostering community among residents. Drawing inspiration from biological growth patterns, specifically binary fission, the architecture reflects concepts of connectedness and vitality. The design intends to create an environment that not only supports social interaction but also nurtures individual well-being in a setting characterized by natural beauty and a Mediterranean climate.

### Spatial Organization
The architectural layout is defined by circular and radial structures, encouraging intuitive navigation and enhancing communal engagement. Central to the design is a gathering space, surrounded by green gardens and recreational areas, that serves as the heart of the facility. This intentional arrangement fosters a vibrant community atmosphere while promoting tranquility and a sense of belonging among residents. Key features include a radial pattern that facilitates exploration of shared spaces and thoughtfully designed private quarters that balance interaction with the need for privacy.

### Material Selection
The materials employed are integral to both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. Concrete is utilized for its robustness, forming a durable structural base, while thermal glazing enhances energy efficiency by maximizing natural light. Stone paving creates an organic look for pathways and communal areas, and wooden details are incorporated to evoke warmth and familiarity. Eco-friendly insulation is also employed to improve thermal performance, contributing to energy conservation. Each material selection supports the project's goals of functionality and environmental responsibility, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable design practices.

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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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