Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Clay Structures and Relaxation Spaces Enrich Communal Cycling Experience

Authors:
Olivia Monroy, Marcelo Valverde
Clay Structures and Relaxation Spaces Enrich Communal Cycling Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing clay and innovative waterproofing techniques, the design offers communal spaces like hammocks and a bike repair station, creating an inviting environment for cyclists to connect with nature and each other.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes clay as a primary structural material for thermal and acoustic benefits.
02
Incorporates hammocks and a stretch cage to promote relaxation and wellness.
03
Features a dedicated bike repair station encouraging user engagement.
04
Employs wax for waterproofing to enhance longevity and sustainability.
05
Design encourages direct interaction with the surrounding natural landscape.

The design combines a vision for cyclists with a strong connection to the natural environment. It focuses on creating spaces that enhance community interaction while providing essential amenities. The guiding theme of “Let’s go back to nature” shapes the overall approach, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and comfort.

Functional Areas

The layout features a variety of spaces, including a sleeping area, dining room, bathroom, bike repair station, fireplaces, bike rack, hammocks, and stretch cage. Each area has its own clear purpose, but they all work together to create an inviting atmosphere. This arrangement promotes smooth movement between spaces, making it easy for users to enjoy different activities throughout their stay.

Material Choices

Clay is prominently used as a primary building material, known for its energy efficiency and acoustic properties. Wax is applied for waterproofing, supporting long-lasting usability. In addition to clay, wood and metal are included in various components of the design. These materials not only enhance the structure’s durability but also contribute to its overall aesthetic. The thoughtful selection of materials connects the buildings to their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Design Elements

The elevations and sections of the design reveal careful attention to light and space. Large windows and openings allow natural light to fill the interiors, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This focus on daylighting helps blur the line between indoors and outdoors. The design encourages a close relationship with the natural world.

Features such as hammocks and the stretch cage emphasize relaxation and well-being. Positioned to take advantage of the surrounding scenery, these areas invite users to unwind. The design prioritizes not just functionality but also the enjoyment of nature as part of daily life.

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