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Curvilinear Sanctuary Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled in the Woodland

Authors:
Agnieszka Kwiecień, Chris Zhongtian Yuan, Neil Zhou
Curvilinear Sanctuary Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled in the Woodland

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber panels and integrated with a curvilinear design, the structure harmoniously coexists with its woodland setting while serving as a versatile residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes spatial efficiency and light penetration.
04
Integrates a geothermal heating system for sustainable energy use.
05
Includes a central courtyard that serves as a multifunctional gathering space.

### Overview

Located in a wooded area, the design integrates the built environment with the surrounding natural landscape, emphasizing ecological sensitivity and contemporary aesthetics. The intent is to provide functional spaces for habitation and recreation while fostering a strong connection between occupants and their environment.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout is characterized by a circular arrangement of spaces, facilitating fluid navigation and interaction. At the heart of the design is a circular courtyard that highlights the natural surroundings and promotes communal gatherings. Key areas include open living and dining spaces that feature large windows to enhance light penetration and blur indoor-outdoor transitions. Private quarters are designed with materials that ensure privacy while maintaining environmental connectivity, and recreational and utility spaces are strategically positioned to prioritize accessibility without compromising the overall spatial quality. Additionally, an underground water processing system and geothermal heating contribute to energy efficiency and sustainable water management.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

The architectural expression is enhanced through a carefully curated material palette. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) ensures structural integrity while minimizing carbon emissions, complemented by reinforced concrete that provides sculptural possibilities. High-performance glazing maximizes views and thermal efficiency, while natural stone and wood finishes integrate the structure with its context. The inclusion of vibrant textiles, such as yellow curtains, introduces warmth and contrast to the overall design. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the use of local materials, advanced water management techniques, and geothermal energy solutions, underscoring the project's ecological awareness and long-term viability.

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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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