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Circular Living Inspired by Indigenous Shelters and Natural Light

Author:
Pierre-philippe Landrain
Circular Living Inspired by Indigenous Shelters and Natural Light

Project in-detail

Inspired by the forms of indigenous shelters, the design utilizes circular geometry and abundant natural light to create a comfortable and sustainable living space that encourages community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances natural airflow and light distribution throughout the living spaces.
02
Integration of a central patio blurs indoor and outdoor boundaries for a cohesive experience.
03
Openings are strategically placed to optimize views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Inspiration drawn from indigenous shelters informs sustainable building practices.
05
The layout promotes social interaction while ensuring privacy for residents.

The design presents a thoughtful approach, based on circular geometry and influenced by several traditional structures. Located in a natural landscape, the building functions as a comfortable living space that promotes community and interaction with the environment. By incorporating elements from forms like the Hogan, Yurt, and Teepee, the design emphasizes practical use and connection to the surroundings.

Design Concept

The layout uses the idea of a mandala, representing unity and the cycles of life. This circular structure allows for easy movement between key areas such as dining, sleeping, and bathing spaces. At the center, a patio creates an outdoor gathering place that enhances social interactions while still offering private moments within the home.

Spatial Flow

Large openings positioned according to cardinal directions maximize natural light and airflow. This design choice facilitates cross-ventilation, which helps keep the interior comfortable. The changing light throughout the day and seasons adds variety to the living environment, reinforcing a link between the residents and nature.

Integration with Landscape

The design works to connect with the surrounding landscape, aligning the ground level with the window sills to maintain a visual link to the outdoors. This approach ensures that the building feels part of its site, enhancing the experience of space. The relationship with the landscape becomes an important aspect, highlighting the idea of living in harmony with nature.

Structural Considerations

The project is expected to make use of modern materials to provide support while reflecting traditional construction practices. The incorporation of engineered components will ensure durability against weather conditions, allowing for a practical and strong building. This form captures the essence of circular architecture and considers the local climate while focusing on user experience.

Within the circular layout, the central patio invites elements of nature inside. This design blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a peaceful environment that encourages relaxation and connection with the surroundings.

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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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