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Curved Forms and Natural Stone Create Symbiotic Residential Space with Sustainable Glass Elements

Author:
Mateusz Dawid Białek
Curved Forms and Natural Stone Create Symbiotic Residential Space with Sustainable Glass Elements

Project in-detail

With its curvilinear form and integration of local stone, the design employs energy-efficient glass to create a residence that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while maximizing light and flexibility in living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear form enhances wind resistance and airflow.
02
Large glass panels optimize views and daylight while maintaining thermal performance.
03
Local stone integrates the structure into its landscape context.
04
Open-plan layout promotes flexibility for various living activities.
05
Sustainable materials include energy-efficient glass and low-VOC finishes.

### Project Overview
Il Nido, located in a scenic area characterized by natural beauty and diverse terrains, combines contemporary architectural practices with a commitment to environmental stewardship. The design aims to redefine the relationship between inhabitants and their surroundings by creating spaces that foster harmony and sustainability within the landscape.

### Design Concept and Spatial Strategy
Il Nido's design is informed by the notion of a nurturing enclosure, exemplified through its organic, curvilinear forms that resemble an egg, symbolizing protection and growth. This approach challenges conventional architectural lines while seamlessly integrating with the natural contours of the site. Key design features include:

- **Curvilinear Form:** The egg-like shape enhances aerodynamics and reduces wind resistance, making it suitable for the coastal region's climatic challenges.
- **Strategic Transparency:** Large windows strategically positioned throughout the structure enhance the connection to the landscape, framing views that evolve with changing seasons and times of day.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A focus on sustainable and locally-sourced materials supports both aesthetic and functional objectives. The project's material palette includes:

1. **Reinforced Concrete:** Chosen for its durability and versatility in forming organic shapes.
2. **Glass:** Energy-efficient panels allow natural light to permeate the interiors while offering unobstructed views of the environment.
3. **Wood:** Used in interior elements to provide warmth and a sense of connection to the outdoor landscape.
4. **Natural Stone:** Local stone materials form the building's foundation, anchoring it within its environment.
5. **Eco-Friendly Finishes:** Low-VOC paints and sealants enhance indoor air quality and health.

This project integrates passive solar heating, natural ventilation, and rainwater harvesting systems, making it a model of sustainable living. The open-plan layout supports flexible use for a variety of activities while maintaining an intimate atmosphere, promoting engagement with the outdoor terrain. Careful consideration of seasonal variations ensures year-round comfort for its occupants.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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