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Circular Windows Framing Nature in Cross-Laminated Timber Homes

Authors:
Marcel Pérez, Karolína Tichá
Circular Windows Framing Nature in Cross-Laminated Timber Homes

Project in-detail

Large circular windows connect residents to the surrounding landscape, while the use of cross-laminated timber creates a harmonious living environment that balances privacy and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large circular windows enhance natural light and views in communal areas.
02
Elevated terraces connect TILIhomes, promoting interaction while ensuring privacy.
03
Cross-laminated timber construction provides structural efficiency and warmth.
04
The gable roof design allows for unobstructed interior spaces.
05
Wild flora landscaping enhances privacy and ties the architecture to nature.

The design focuses on creating a community living environment that promotes both private and communal experiences. It is set within a landscape that encourages connection among residents while balancing their needs for privacy. The layout follows a North-South orientation, which provides adequate sunlight for the TILIhomes. These homes are positioned to face Southeast and West, offering protection from northern winds while enhancing comfort. A central common gathering area acts as a hub for social engagement, effectively linking the residential units with shared spaces.

Design Concept

The TILIhomes incorporate elevated terraces that rise above the rooftops, creating opportunities for interaction among residents while preserving their privacy. The common building is divided into two parts, each serving a distinct purpose. The section with a flat roof caters to guest services and staff needs. Meanwhile, the wine tasting area takes on a more traditional architectural style combined with modern touches. This approach emphasizes both the practical aspects of the design and its connection to local winemaking culture.

Spatial Arrangement

The wine tasting area showcases a large circular window that faces West, allowing sweeping views of the landscape. This window enhances the experience for those inside, creating a stronger bond with the surroundings. The gable roof of the building lacks internal trusses, providing a clear and open interior space. This design choice maximizes the practicality of the home while contributing to an overall appealing look.

Landscaping and Materiality

Wild flora is incorporated throughout the site, enhancing its natural beauty and creating private patios and gardens. This landscaping choice shows a commitment to being ecologically aware while improving life for the residents. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is used for its structural strength and energy efficiency. This material fits the aesthetic of the project well, promoting a sense of warmth and connection to the natural world.

Innovative Design Elements

One notable design feature is the tilted gable wall in the wine tasting area, which allows natural light to enter while highlighting the views outside. This detail improves the atmosphere inside and creates a lively relationship between the building and its environment. The result is a setting that balances private living with communal interaction, rooted in an appreciation for both nature and the local culture.

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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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