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Circular Space Enveloped in Natural Light with Stone and Wood Integration

Circular Space Enveloped in Natural Light with Stone and Wood Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing a circular form with integrated stone and wood elements, the design enhances natural light and fosters community interaction, serving as a multifunctional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances communal spaces while promoting privacy.
02
Integrated stone construction offers thermal mass and durability.
03
Natural light strategies utilize strategic openings to minimize energy use.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and unique texture.
05
Sustainable materials contribute to ecological harmony with the surrounding landscape.

### Overview

Located in a serene, potentially rural landscape, "Shelter" engages with historical context while embodying contemporary design principles. The intent behind the project is to explore the themes of space, light, and materiality, creating a setting that encourages reflection and community interaction. The architectural form is rooted in the metaphor of a shell, representing both physical and emotional refuge, and fostering a dialogue between the structure and its environment.

### Spatial Strategy

The spatial organization is centered around a circular core designed to support communal activities and foster social interaction. The layout includes single accommodations that prioritize privacy alongside collective accommodations intended for groups and families. Dining halls and kitchens are thoughtfully positioned to enhance social gatherings, while strategically placed restroom facilities serve both individual and communal spaces. Outdoor connections are integrated into the design, facilitating a strong relationship between the interior and exterior environments and promoting accessibility to nature.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project emphasizes a careful choice of materials that fulfill both aesthetic and functional requirements. The use of stone suggests structural integrity and a connection to historical precedents, while wood elements may contribute to warmth and a natural ambiance. Glass is utilized to maximize natural light and provide views of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the themes of reflection and integration with nature. These material choices are designed to ensure durability while harmonizing the building with its geographical context, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness. The innovative approach to light management, characterized by dynamic openings, enhances the interior experience by creating shifting light conditions throughout the day.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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The Architect's Chair
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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