Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Circular Windows and Red Brick Create a Harmonious Retreat Rooted in Nature

Author:
Nayeon Park
Circular Windows and Red Brick Create a Harmonious Retreat Rooted in Nature

Project in-detail

Red brick walls and circular windows establish a dialogue with the landscape, creating a serene guest house that emphasizes community interaction and individual retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Red brick walls are incorporated to enhance thermal performance and blend with the surrounding landscape.
02
Circular windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light and frame stunning views of the exterior.
03
The layout promotes a seamless flow between communal and private spaces, fostering social interaction.
04
Organic shapes in the architecture reflect the symbolism of the olive tree, promoting a sense of inclusivity.
05
Sustainable materials are prioritized in construction, emphasizing eco-friendliness and low maintenance.

## Overview

Located in Portugal, the Olive Guest House is designed to reflect the interconnection of cultural heritage and modern hospitality. Drawing inspiration from the symbolism of the olive tree, the structure embodies themes of unity and diversity, serving as a metaphor for inclusivity. The design aims to foster communal interaction and cultural exchange, rooted in the historical context of Portugal's cultural migrations.

## Architectural Representation

The guest house comprises two primary forms that delineate communal and private spaces. The communal area includes gathering spaces that promote social interaction, while private guest accommodations are designed for relaxation. Organic shapes and natural materials, such as red brick and white stucco, enhance the aesthetic experience, creating environments that encourage belonging and vitality. The integration of glass for expansive windows allows for ample natural light and connects interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.

## Environmental Integration

The Olive Guest House thoughtfully engages with its natural surroundings, employing sustainable practices through the selection of materials and design principles. The use of biophilic design fosters a relationship between the built environment and the landscape, promoting ecological sensitivity. Notable design features include strategically placed circular windows that provide both illumination and views of the landscape, further reinforcing the connection between the structure and its context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy