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Curvilinear Design Featuring Photovoltaic Glass and Cross-Laminated Timber for a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Carla Caldani, Francesca Giugliano
Curvilinear Design Featuring Photovoltaic Glass and Cross-Laminated Timber for a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms clad in photovoltaic glass and cross-laminated timber create a harmonious blend of sustainability and comfort, resulting in a tranquil retreat designed for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear structure enhances spatial flow and connection to nature.
02
Integrated photovoltaic glass generates renewable energy for the retreat.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and an aesthetic finish.
04
Geothermal heating and cooling systems ensure energy efficiency year-round.
05
Living walls promote biodiversity and improve indoor air quality.

### Overview

Located within a natural landscape, the design of "Enso" aims to create a sanctuary focused on meditation, tranquility, and reflection. Inspired by the Japanese symbol "Ensō," which represents wholeness and the beauty of imperfection, the structure seeks to establish a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its surrounding ecosystem. The architect’s intent is to facilitate a space that promotes introspection while allowing for a fluid interaction between occupants and their natural surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration and Flow

The layout is strategically designed to integrate with its environment, utilizing circular forms that echo the Ensō concept. The ground floor features an open-plan living area that encourages both communal gathering and personal solitude, including a dining room, living room, and service areas. The first floor comprises individual bedroom suites, each oriented to maximize natural light and offer distinct views of the landscape. A central void allows for a continuous circulation around the space, enhancing accessibility and fostering interaction while maintaining an airy atmosphere.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

"Enso" employs a range of innovative materials to address sustainability and energy efficiency. Photovoltaic glass provides structural support and harnesses solar energy, contributing to a net-zero energy goal. The design incorporates geothermal heat pumps for optimized climate control, while local timber finishes enhance the warmth and connection to the environment. Additional green elements, such as living walls and rooftop gardens, improve biodiversity and air quality, reinforcing the relationship between the structure and nature. Rainwater harvesting systems are also incorporated to promote water conservation and further the ecological intent of the project.

By prioritizing natural light and ventilation, the structure minimizes dependency on artificial systems, reinforcing its sustainable design ethos. The careful arrangement of spaces fosters both communal engagement and individual privacy, enhancing the meditative experience for users. The interplay between the building and its landscape not only respects existing ecosystems but also invites nature inward, ensuring a low-impact development that aligns with contemporary ecological practices.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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