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Curvilinear Coralstone Living Spaces Enhanced by Natural Light and Community Integration

Authors:
Ying Hong, Hao Zhou, Qingqing Zhou
Curvilinear Coralstone Living Spaces Enhanced by Natural Light and Community Integration

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms shaped from coralstone and designed for optimal airflow create a communal living environment that balances privacy and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design enhances airflow and natural light throughout living spaces.
02
Use of coralstone provides thermal regulation and local relevance.
03
Open atrium design fosters community interaction and connectivity.
04
Arched roofs contribute to passive cooling strategies in arid climates.
05
Integration of metal grating creates dynamic light patterns within interiors.
The architectural project is a residential design that effectively balances living space with social function, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of contemporary lifestyle needs and local cultural norms. It integrates various spaces intended for both social interaction and privacy, creating a cohesive environment suitable for diverse family dynamics. The project emphasizes adaptability in living arrangements and spatial flow, enhancing the overall functionality of the home. Each design element is purposefully curated, contributing to a focused architectural narrative.

Materiality and Sustainability

One of the distinguishing aspects of this project is its thoughtful choice of materials. The primary structural elements utilize reinforced concrete, offering durability and stability. Limestone with coral material serves as both a visual and functional component, facilitating thermal regulation within the home. Wood is incorporated as flooring to promote warmth, while coral stone is utilized in wall designs, adding texture and aesthetic value. Additionally, the use of glass panels in vaulted spaces allows ample natural light to filter into the interior, promoting energy efficiency. The metal grating featured on the upper structures introduces a unique interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the spatial quality of the design.

A key highlight is the incorporation of sustainable building practices, such as passive cooling strategies and natural ventilation. This project takes local climate conditions into account, utilizing arched roofs to create an effective air circulation system, which minimizes the need for mechanical cooling. The openness of the design not only optimizes airflow but also anchors the design within its geographical context, addressing specific climate challenges without compromising on aesthetics.

Spatial Organization and Unique Features

The spatial arrangement of the project delineates areas for both communal and private activities. The first floor is designed as an open atrium that serves as the hub for dining, living, and entertainment. This layout enhances the interaction between family members and guests, embodying social connection. The strategic separation of private areas, located on the upper floors, ensures that residents can retreat into quieter spaces when needed, promoting both shared and solitary experiences within the home.

Unique design approaches include the organic shapes of the structure, which depart from conventional right-angled designs. The curved geometry of the roof and walls contributes to an inviting ambiance, enhancing the visual experience of the architecture. The atrium serves as a central feature, connecting multiple spaces seamlessly and providing a source of natural light and landscape views. This focus on connectivity not only enriches the living experience but also positions the project as an exemplar of modern residential design.

For further insights into this architectural design project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and various architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. There, further information regarding design intentions, material selections, and spatial configurations can be examined in depth.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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