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Cloistered Spaces Crafted with Local Stone and Natural Wood Emphasizing Community Connectivity

Authors:
Timothy Carl Mann, Robin Hentrich
Cloistered Spaces Crafted with Local Stone and Natural Wood Emphasizing Community Connectivity

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced stone and natural wood, the design integrates communal gathering spaces within a circular layout that encourages social interaction while prioritizing individual privacy for its residential functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Craftsman details incorporate local stone to enhance durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
A circular layout fosters communal interaction while maintaining privacy for individual residences.
03
Innovative use of charred wooden shingles provides both a striking appearance and fire resistance.
04
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategically placed openings within the bent A-frame design.
05
Community gardens are integrated into the site, promoting biodiversity and organic interaction among residents.
The architectural design project "Cloistered Coexistence" explores the interaction between community, solitude, and the surrounding landscape. It is conceptualized as a modern take on monastic architecture, merging historical references with contemporary design principles. The project is characterized by a circular layout that promotes social interactions while maintaining private spaces for individual reflection. This relationship between public and private realms makes it a significant contribution to community-oriented architecture.

The spatial organization within the project consists of a central gathering area surrounded by residential units and amenity spaces. The design integrates pathways that facilitate movement throughout the site, enhancing connectivity between individual residences and communal areas. The floor plan features a spiraling configuration, allowing for easy navigation and promoting social exchanges among occupants. The use of sectional views highlights the vertical relationship between spaces, providing ample natural light and ventilation.

One defining aspect of this project is its attention to materiality. A combination of stone, concrete, wood, brick, and glass has been employed to create a textured and inviting environment. The heavy stone and concrete form the structural base, while lighter elements of wood and glass contribute to an open and airy atmosphere. This careful selection of materials not only meets functional requirements but also aligns with sustainability goals by incorporating locally sourced resources and energy-efficient features.

Expanding on the unique design approaches, the project emphasizes the importance of transitional spaces. Arcades and cloisters are integral elements that serve as mediators between indoor and outdoor environments. These elements encourage residents to engage with the exterior, promoting a sense of community while also allowing for personal retreat within the private sections. The relationship with the landscape is enhanced by a thoughtful arrangement of green spaces and communal gardens, fostering interaction with the natural environment.

The architectural planning, sectional arrangements, and material choices present a cohesive framework that promotes both individual well-being and community interaction. Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide further insights into the innovative ideas presented in this project. Interested individuals are encouraged to delve into the complete project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural implementation and concepts.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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