Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Curved Concrete and Glass Form Embracing Natural Light in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Joao Aires, Salih Etka Oezsoy
Curved Concrete and Glass Form Embracing Natural Light in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a seamless integration of curved concrete and expansive glass panels, the design harnesses natural light while fostering a strong connection with the surrounding landscape in a sustainable residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved design elements optimize the flow of natural light throughout the interior spaces.
02
Extensive glass walls enhance visual connectivity with the surrounding landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels offer both structural stability and an eco-friendly material choice.
04
A reflective swimming pool serves as a focal point, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Passive solar techniques minimize reliance on artificial lighting and maintain thermal comfort.

### Overview

The Equinox House is situated within a carefully considered natural landscape, aiming to establish a harmonious balance between the built environment and its surroundings. The architectural design focuses on integrating indoor and outdoor experiences, with a significant emphasis on the interplay of light and shadow throughout different times of day. This approach positions the residence as an extension of the landscape, inviting inhabitants to engage with their environment in a meaningful way.

### Spatial Configuration

The internal arrangement of the Equinox House centers around four distinct yet interconnected zones: a communal social space, a dedicated dining area, a compact kitchen, and private living quarters. This minimalistic layout is designed to facilitate social interaction while maintaining functional living spaces. Large glass panels strategically placed within the design offer unobstructed views of the natural surroundings, thus enhancing the occupants’ connection to the landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials selected for the Equinox House reflect a commitment to both functionality and environmental stewardship. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing durability and versatility in design. Extensive use of glass allows for an abundance of natural light, while wood elements introduce warmth and continuity with the natural environment. Natural stone finishes further couple the structure with its contextual setting. Additionally, mesh screens have been incorporated to diffuse sunlight, balancing brightness and comfort within the living spaces.

Environmental considerations underpin the design philosophy, emphasizing passive solar strategies and water features that promote sustainability and encourage a lifestyle in tune with nature. With an architecture that adapts to light variations throughout the day, the Equinox House supports a tranquil and reflective living experience without reliance on artificial illumination.

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