Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Curved Structures Crafted from Glued Laminated Timber Integrating Natural Fabrics in a Sustainable Community Setting

Authors:
Macedo De Araujo , Debora Vieira Mendes De Oliveira , Carlos Maia
Curved Structures Crafted from Glued Laminated Timber Integrating Natural Fabrics in a Sustainable Community Setting

Project in-detail

Curved forms of glued laminated timber harmonize with natural fabrics to create sustainable living spaces that foster community engagement within the Amazon rainforest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved structures utilize glued laminated timber for enhanced resilience and aesthetic integration with the rainforest environment.
02
Natural fabrics are employed for interior finishes, promoting local craftsmanship and sustainability.
03
Modular design allows for easy relocation and expansion based on community needs.
04
Passive cooling strategies are implemented through strategic shading and natural ventilation.
05
Biogas systems convert organic waste into usable energy resources for the community.
The architectural design project situated in Tumiria, close to the Amazon rainforest, fosters a symbiotic relationship between built structures and the environment. This project is centered on creating sustainable architecture that embraces ecological principles and meets the needs of the local community. It is a response to contemporary challenges, emphasizing environmental stewardship and cultural integration.

The project showcases modular structures comprised of glued laminated timber and Kingpan insulated panels. These materials provide durability and thermal efficiency, vital for the humid tropical climate. The design maintains an organic aesthetic, inspired by natural patterns observed in the surrounding forest, while also ensuring structural integrity. The unique oval forms echo natural growth, promoting unity and a harmonious living experience within the community.

Modularity is a distinct feature of the architecture, which allows for flexibility in construction, relocation, or replication as community needs evolve. The inclusion of an onboard crane system enhances ease of assembly on-site, streamlining the construction process. This design approach considerably reduces the ecological footprint, aligning with sustainable development goals. The structures are designed to support passive cooling through strategic shading and natural ventilation, ensuring comfort without reliance on mechanical systems.

A notable aspect of the project is its community-focused design process. Local residents actively participate in the formation of the architectural designs, which fosters a sense of ownership and relevance among users. Additionally, the project incorporates educational initiatives to equip the community with skills in sustainable practices, ultimately promoting economic development and environmental awareness.

The integration of waste management systems further distinguishes this architectural endeavor. Biogas generators are employed to convert organic waste into usable energy, thus contributing to a circular economy within the community. This focus on resource management enhances the resilience of the project and its inhabitants.

For those interested in exploring the intricate details of this architectural project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, further investigation will provide valuable insights into the innovative approaches undertaken.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 17,249 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