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Curvilinear Forms and Semi-Permeable Surfaces in a Nature-Inspired Museum

Author:
Nadia Kasko
Curvilinear Forms and Semi-Permeable Surfaces in a Nature-Inspired Museum

Project in-detail

Inspired by the organic movement of lava, the museum's curvilinear forms and semi-permeable surfaces create a harmonious relationship with the landscape while providing a versatile space for art exhibitions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms reflect the natural movement of lava.
02
Flexible exhibit walls allow for diverse art arrangements.
03
Semi-permeable surfaces minimize water run-off.
04
Green roofs enhance insulation and support biodiversity.
05
Strategically placed glass surfaces optimize daylight in galleries.

TerrAstral introduces a design that connects earth and sky in a unique way. Set in a landscape that highlights natural elements, the building serves as a museum, showcasing art while embodying the movements of nature. The architecture features flowing forms that resemble the motion of lava, creating a connection between the constructed space and its natural surroundings.

Conceptual Foundations
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The design carries a dual theme that changes from day to night. By day, it reflects the undulating shapes found in volcanic landscapes, while at night, illuminated lines mimic the soft glow of the Aurora Borealis. This approach establishes a conversation between architecture and the environment, resulting in a space that shifts in appearance and feel throughout the day.

Sustainable Design Strategies
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Ground surfaces are intentionally designed to be semi-permeable or permeable. This allows water to be absorbed naturally, reducing rainwater run-off. Such considerations enhance environmental responsibility and help integrate the building with its landscape. Additionally, the green roofs contribute to insulation and support local wildlife, fostering a sense of ecological balance.

Spatial Configuration and Flexibility
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The building’s orientation maximizes daylight while minimizing unwanted heat. Glass surfaces are used to allow light from the north, protecting exhibits from harsh sunlight. The exhibition areas include movable walls that can be rearranged as needed, allowing for different layouts based on the art being showcased.

Visitor Engagement and Experience
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Distinct public and private spaces enhance the visitor experience. A café provides both indoor and outdoor seating, encouraging people to engage with their natural surroundings. The thoughtful layout supports a connection to nature, while sustainable features highlight the building's commitment to reducing its ecological impact.


The final design element is the ground surface, which gently rises and falls, creating a natural flow between the building and the landscape. This approach resonates with the overall theme of harmony between the structure and its environment.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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