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Cloud-Encased Glass Cube with a Dynamic Water System

Authors:
Vrutangi Patel, Kshitij Wadhwa
Cloud-Encased Glass Cube with a Dynamic Water System

Project in-detail

Enveloped in a dynamic cloud created by high-pressure water jets, a glass cube residence strategically integrates with the natural landscape to offer an adaptable living environment that blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Enclosed by a metal cage that houses high-pressure water jet nozzles.
02
Artificial cloud can be adjusted based on weather or resident preference.
03
Green court acts as a central feature connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Openable roof panels invite nature and fresh air into the living environment.
05
Designed to respond dynamically to light and atmospheric changes throughout the day.

The design located on the shores of Lake Hallwil reveals a modern approach to living in harmony with its natural surroundings. The residence functions as a home that merges various living spaces within a glass cube structure, spanning three levels. The overall design concept focuses on the relationship between light, water, and habitation, creating a dynamic environment for its inhabitants.

Atmospheric Manipulation

Surrounding the glass cube is a cage made of metal members. This framework has both structural and functional purposes. Integrated within it are high-pressure water jet nozzles that draw water from the lake to create an artificial cloud around the house. Residents can control the density of this cloud based on their preferences or the weather. This feature introduces a unique quality to the living experience, allowing for an adaptable atmosphere that changes throughout the day.

Seamless Integration with Nature

The internal layout centers on a green court that serves as a central point for the residence. This space encourages interaction between indoor areas and the outdoor environment. Openable roof panels invite natural elements like air and water into the living spaces, promoting a connection with the landscape. This design choice enhances the overall ambiance, allowing light and nature to flow freely into the home.

Material Application

The materials used in the design are primarily glass and metal. The glass cube allows for transparency and brings in plenty of natural light. This creates a bright and uplifting atmosphere inside. The metal components provide essential structural support while housing the system that generates the cloud. This combination of materials not only shapes the aesthetic but also improves the building's functionality, making it responsive to environmental changes.

In this setting, the thoughtful arrangement of space, light, and nature come together to form a distinctive atmosphere, where the experience of living is enriched by constant interaction with the outside world.

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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
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