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Curvilinear Form of Murano Glass and Natural Wood in a Coastal Residence

Author:
Maria Parente
Curvilinear Form of Murano Glass and Natural Wood in a Coastal Residence

Project in-detail

Fluid curvilinear forms crafted from Murano glass and warm wood harmonize with the coastal landscape to create a residential space that emphasizes natural light and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates Murano glass for unique aesthetic finishes.
02
Utilizes a curvilinear roof design for optimal rainwater management.
03
Emphasizes an open-plan layout to enhance spatial connectivity.
04
Features sustainable wood materials that reduce environmental impact.
05
Maximizes natural light through expansive glass panels and strategic orientation.

## Overview

The SeaShell House is a residential project located in Italy, spanning an area of 110 m². The design draws inspiration from natural forms and cultural motifs associated with seashells, aiming to create a harmonious living space that reflects both beauty and functionality. The intention is to foster a strong connection between the inhabitants and the surrounding coastal environment.

## Architectural Composition

The exterior design features gracefully curving rooflines that mimic the spirals of seashells, enhancing the dynamism of the structure. Large glass panels are incorporated to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the coastal landscape. Key design elements include a curvilinear roof that efficiently directs rainwater away from living areas, and an open floor plan that facilitates smooth movement and interaction among different spaces.

## Material Selection and Interior Spaces

The selection of materials balances aesthetic appeal with functional performance. Murano glass elements are used in wall finishes, contributing a vibrant and reflective quality, while ceramic tiles offer durability with an organic aesthetic. Wood accents in beams and fixtures add warmth, complemented by a concrete base for structural stability. The interior prioritizes comfort and usability, featuring a living room with expansive windows, a dining area designed for interaction, and a kitchen that harmonizes modern appliances with organic shapes.

## Connection to Nature and Environmental Sensitivity

This design emphasizes the interaction between the dwelling and the natural landscape, utilizing expansive glass surfaces that offer unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery. The architectural form encourages natural ventilation and passive solar heating, showcasing a commitment to sustainability through material choices and a minimalistic structural footprint.

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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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