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Curvilinear Forms and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Living Space on Elevated Topography

Author:
Pedro Manuel Lucas Freire
Curvilinear Forms and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Living Space on Elevated Topography

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms crafted from natural stone and terracotta establish a cohesive connection with the elevated landscape, providing a modern residence designed for communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms promote natural light and fluid movement throughout the interior spaces.
02
Integration of terracotta tiles mirrors local geological characteristics, enhancing the site's connection.
03
Dedicated pet areas are thoughtfully designed to accommodate animal-friendly living.
04
Basement garage access is achieved through a curved entrance, blending functionality with aesthetics.
05
Natural stone cladding enhances durability while complementing the surrounding landscape.

**Location and Intent**
Villa Vau is situated on elevated terrain, allowing for both functional living spaces and aesthetic integration within its natural surroundings. The design prioritizes a deep connection between indoor and outdoor environments, fostering a lifestyle that balances comfort with visual harmony. The residence reflects the specific interests and requirements of its inhabitants, embracing their engagement with nature and their love for pets.

**Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy**
The architectural layout is defined by a distinctive circular form, facilitating unity and flow throughout the interior. This movement promotes extensive natural lighting and unobstructed views of the landscape from various vantage points. The entrance features a curved driveway that leads to a basement garage, effectively merging practical needs with visual appeal. Inside, the spatial organization consists of interconnected public and private areas, designed to enhance interaction and adaptability within the home. Organic shapes in furnishings contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that invites both relaxation and socialization.

**Material Selection and Environmental Integration**
The design accentuates a careful selection of materials that reflect a commitment to both durability and an organic aesthetic. The use of natural stone for exterior walls establishes a connection to the landscape, while terracotta tiles on the facade and flooring echo the earth's warm tones. Large glass panels facilitate panoramic views and abundant natural light, resulting in a fluid transition between the interior and exterior. Wood accents in furnishings and shelving introduce warmth, complemented by smooth plaster finishes and textured surfaces that enrich the interior environment. These elements converge to support a tranquil and engaging living experience.

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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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