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Connection of Smokestack and Periscope in a Stone-Faced Studio

Authors:
Károly lehel Kovács, Csaba Schvarckopf, Kristóf István Szökő, Kerenc Kunhegyesi
Connection of Smokestack and Periscope in a Stone-Faced Studio

Project in-detail

The seamless integration of a periscope and a smokestack defines a studio space that fosters creativity and reflection, set against a backdrop of natural stone and open vistas.
5 key facts about this project
01
A periscope feature provides unique views and engages users with their surroundings.
02
The design incorporates a smokestack, merging artistic and environmental themes.
03
Natural stone elements enhance the connection between the structure and its landscape.
04
The studio's layout promotes both collaboration and individual reflection.
05
Cultural influences from Latvian heritage are woven into the architectural forms.

The design embodies a thoughtful exploration of creativity, situated within a context that emphasizes the integration of cultural identity, environmental elements, and artistic expression. The concept, framed as a structure that nurtures the artistic process, aims to create a flexible studio environment fostering collaboration and personal reflection. It responds to complexities faced by artists in their creative journeys.

Social Human Axis

The social human axis is a key element that informs the architectural language of the design. It integrates aspects of the artist's personal history with elements of Latvian culture. This combination acknowledges individual expression while also recognizing the importance of community. The architectural forms created reflect this balance, resulting in spaces that support both solitude and social interaction.

Natural Geographic Axis

The natural geographic axis explores the relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscapes. The design considers both dense forests and clear lakes, emphasizing the integration of architecture with its ecological context. Visual representations within the project illustrate this connection, highlighting how geography influences the experience of space and enhances the relationship between people and nature.

Sacral Axis

The sacral axis engages with themes of spirituality and introspection. It incorporates design features that stimulate deeper reflections on personal experiences. A notable element is the inclusion of a periscope, which connects physical spaces with broader metaphysical ideas. This design choice invites users to engage not only with their environment but also with larger existential questions, enriching their experience within the space.

The overall design results in a studio characterized by openness and adaptability, promoting creativity and interaction. Public areas are designed with stone flooring and expansive views, encouraging a connection with the outdoors. The central hearth serves as a focal point, linking the tangible experience of creativity with an exploration of universal themes. This element embodies the close relationship between creative activities and the broader cosmos, making the space both functional and reflective.

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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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