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Creating a Coastal Retreat With Natural Wood And Expansive Glass Facades

Authors:
Aayush Verma, Rahul Narang, Tanishkaa Garg, Saloni Kansal
Creating a Coastal Retreat With Natural Wood And Expansive Glass Facades

Project in-detail

Featuring expansive glass facades that merge seamlessly with natural wood elements, the design not only enhances coastal views but also embraces sustainable living, creating a serene family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates lattice screens that create dynamic patterns of light and shadow throughout the interiors.
02
Utilizes locally sourced, charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features an open floor plan that extends effortlessly into outdoor terraces, promoting indoor-outdoor living.
04
Designed with passive cooling strategies to maximize natural ventilation and reduce energy consumption.
05
Showcases large glass panels strategically positioned to capture panoramic ocean views and abundant natural light.
The "Light House" is an architectural project situated on a rocky beach in Florida, designed to create a seamless interaction between indoor living spaces and the natural environment. This residence embodies a thoughtful approach to modern architecture that emphasizes a connection to nature, sustainability, and contemporary functionality. The project represents a sanctuary for its inhabitants, encouraging a lifestyle that values mindfulness and environmental harmony.

Functionally, the "Light House" is designed as a family home that promotes togetherness while also providing individual retreats. The layout features an open plan that facilitates social interaction among family members, with communal areas that extend into outdoor spaces, allowing residents to enjoy the coastal breezes and scenic views. The design encourages both privacy and togetherness, offering intimate spaces for relaxation alongside more expansive areas for gatherings.

A key aspect of the project is how it integrates within its coastal setting. Strategically positioned, the dwelling incorporates large glass windows that frame panoramic views of the ocean, thereby blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. This connection with the landscape is further enhanced by carefully designed outdoor terraces and gardens, which provide additional spaces for recreation and relaxation, reflecting the homeowners' desire to embrace their environment fully.

The architectural design employs a range of materials that align with both aesthetic and practical considerations. Wood features prominently throughout the structure, chosen for its warmth and ecological benefits. It is used to construct the flooring, cabinetry, and as a primary material for exterior cladding, creating an inviting and cohesive appearance. Complementing the wood, aluminum elements introduce durability and modernity to the design, while extensive use of glass plays a pivotal role in maximizing light penetration and creating a sense of openness, reinforcing the home’s connection to the surrounding coastal beauty.

Unique design approaches in the "Light House" include the innovative use of sunlight and shadow to enhance the living experience. Architectural elements such as overhangs and latticed screens are thoughtfully incorporated into the design, creating dynamic patterns of light and shade within the interiors. This not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also contributes to passive environmental control, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control systems.

The landscaping surrounding the "Light House" complements the architectural design by utilizing native flora, which requires less irrigation and care. This ecological approach not only preserves the natural beauty of the coastal environment but also fosters a sense of continuity with the landscape, promoting biodiversity. The design speaks to a growing trend in architecture that emphasizes sustainability and stewardship of the land, aligning the project with responsible building practices.

Interior spaces are characterized by minimalism and functionality, with an emphasis on natural finishes that enhance the sense of warmth and tranquility. The open floor plan facilitates movement and interaction among family members, while private areas are strategically located to ensure moments of solitude. This balance between open communal spaces and private retreats reflects a sophisticated understanding of modern family dynamics and lifestyle needs.

Overall, the "Light House" is a testament to thoughtful architectural design that harmonizes with its environment, promotes sustainability, and enhances the quality of life for its residents. The project encourages exploration of a well-designed living space that responds to both environmental and social contexts. For a more detailed understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas behind this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the presentation further.
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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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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