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Curved Metal Panels and Natural Light Create Fluid Living Spaces in Eco-Friendly Design

Authors:
Wesley bryan Fung, Tsz wing Wu, Nok yue Chan
Curved Metal Panels and Natural Light Create Fluid Living Spaces in Eco-Friendly Design

Project in-detail

Curved metal panels enveloped in natural light define this eco-friendly residence, seamlessly integrating flexible living spaces with sustainable materials to enhance the connection between occupants and their surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved metal panels provide an organic exterior that echoes natural forms.
02
Moveable bedrooms enhance adaptability and occupant comfort within the living space.
03
A micro incinerator integrates waste management into the design for sustainable living.
04
Large glass openings frame scenic views while maximizing natural light throughout.
05
Timber flooring from sustainable sources adds warmth and tactile quality to interiors.

### Overview
The "Fairies" project is situated in an area known for its visibility of the aurora, serving as a focal point for the design's thematic inspirations. Reflecting the natural phenomenon of the aurora and the associated folklore, the architecture aims to create a tranquil living environment that emphasizes fluidity and grace. The design integrates organic forms, engaging with the surrounding landscape to promote a sense of connection between the structure and nature.

### Spatial Organization
The layout of the complex is strategically designed to facilitate movement and interaction. It is organized into distinct public and private zones:
- **Private Zone**: This retreat area features master bedrooms and lounging spaces designed for relaxation, while offering panoramic views of the natural surroundings.
- **Guest Zone**: Communal areas such as dining spaces and saunas promote social engagement, providing facilities tailored for both residents and visitors.

### Material Characteristics
Material selection is integral to the project's overall vision, balancing aesthetic appeal with structural functionality:
- **Curved Metal Panels**: These elements provide both fluidity and structural support, echoing the organic lines of the aurora.
- **Steel Frame Structure**: This robust framework allows for expansive interior spaces while ensuring stability.
- **Glass**: Used to maximize natural light and facilitate visual connections with the outdoor environment.
- **Wooden Flooring**: Introduces warmth indoors, aligning with the project's focus on an organic experience.

### Specific Design Features
Distinctive features enhance the site's functionality and sustainability:
- **Moveable Bedrooms**: These adaptable living quarters allow occupants to customize their space according to their needs, fostering comfort and personal connection with the environment.
- **Micro Incinerator**: Embedded within the architectural model, this feature reflects a commitment to sustainable waste management practices.

### Spatial Quality
Attention to spatial qualities enhances the user's experience:
- **Optimized Openings**: Strategically placed windows frame stunning views of the aurora, forging an intimate relationship between the occupants and the natural environment.
- **Harmonious Ambiance**: Curved ceilings and walls are designed to echo the surrounding landscape, establishing a cohesive internal atmosphere that aligns with the external beauty.

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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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