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Curved Roof Structure Featuring Reinforced Concrete and Local Wood Emphasizing Biophilic Design Elements

Authors:
Nahun Adrian Mora Hernandez, Aaron Gabriel Mora Hernandez, Luis Eduardo Jimenez Aleman
Curved Roof Structure Featuring Reinforced Concrete and Local Wood Emphasizing Biophilic Design Elements

Project in-detail

A curved roof crafted from reinforced concrete harmonizes with local wood, creating a compact living space that emphasizes biophilic design and connectivity to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof design mimics the form of a whale, enhancing aesthetic harmony with the landscape.
02
Extensive use of glass walls ensures unobstructed views and maximizes natural light.
03
Flexible furniture system allows for adaptable spatial configurations in a compact footprint.
04
Local wood sourced for structural elements emphasizes environmental sustainability.
05
Hydro energy system utilizes local water resources for energy efficiency and self-sufficiency.

### Overview

The Microhome Whale House, located in Costa Rica, exemplifies modern architecture's integration with the natural environment. Designed to facilitate a profound connection with its surroundings, this compact dwelling prioritizes functionality and comfort while respecting the local ecosystem. The architectural form draws inspiration from the shape of a whale, featuring a curved roof that evokes the dorsal fin, fostering a visual relationship with the lush landscape.

### Material Selection

The construction of the Whale House employs a curated selection of materials that balance durability and ecological considerations. Reinforced concrete serves as the structural backbone, allowing for organic forms while ensuring integrity. Large glass panels contribute to transparency, providing unobstructed views of the surrounding jungle. The interior features sustainably sourced wood, likely cedar or teak, which adds warmth and aligns with environmental principles. Eco-friendly coatings enhance the longevity of these materials, while a hydro energy pump harnesses local water resources to support energy needs and provide potable water.

### Spatial Configuration

Occupying a modest footprint of 24 square meters, the Whale House is meticulously planned to optimize space and functionality. An open-concept living room and kitchen area facilitate social interactions while incorporating flexible furniture solutions, such as folding elements that maximize useable space. The bathroom is efficiently designed with water-saving fixtures, and innovative features like a staircase closet provide additional storage without compromising spatial integrity. The adaptability of the layout ensures a versatile living environment capable of accommodating changing user needs.

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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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