Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Corten Steel Facades and Elevated Platforms for Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Sofia Miranda Icaza, TomÁs MikulÁs ChroustovskÝ, Sergio Javier Zalamea Ochoa
Corten Steel Facades and Elevated Platforms for Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Elevated platforms crafted from Corten steel and communal spaces designed for engagement define a sustainable living environment that integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are designed to be easily reconfigured based on resident needs.
02
Each dwelling incorporates solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems for sustainability.
03
Corten steel facades blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.
04
Elevated platforms enhance views while reducing ground disturbance.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and a distinct aesthetic finish.

# Architectural Analysis Report: Chronotope Project in Mexico

## Overview
The Chronotope project is situated near Popocatépetl in Mexico, designed as a series of modular units that engage with the natural environment while fostering community and sustainable practices. The intent behind this architectural design is to create living spaces that not only provide shelter but also encourage interaction among residents, promoting a sense of community grounded in respect for nature.

## Spatial Configuration
The layout of Chronotope takes full advantage of the mountainous terrain, respecting the natural contours of the land to minimize environmental impact. Each modular unit serves as a self-sufficient dwelling capable of connecting with others to form clusters, enhancing community dynamics. Adjacent to these clusters, centralized communal areas are designed to promote social interaction, functioning as gathering spaces for residents. Pathways and outdoor spaces are integrated to improve accessibility and engagement with the surrounding landscape, while elevated structures ensure unobstructed views of the terrain.

## Material Selection
Materials for the Chronotope project were chosen for their environmental compatibility and local relevance. Corten steel is utilized for exterior cladding, offering durability and a visual connection to the landscape through its oxidized finish. Local timber serves as structural framing and interior finishes, providing thermal insulation and aesthetic warmth. Glass elements enhance natural lighting and visual connectivity to the outdoors. Moreover, the project prioritizes sustainably sourced materials, which reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and contribute to a strong sense of place in the community.

The design incorporates features such as solar panels and water collection systems in each unit to support self-sufficiency, while dynamic living spaces with adjustable elements accommodate user needs and seasonal variations. Extensive windows and outdoor terraces create a balance between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing residents' well-being and fostering ecological mindfulness. The modular approach allows for future expansion, adapting to the evolving social and environmental context while preserving local cultural narratives through traditional building techniques.

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