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Curvilinear Sanctuary Featuring Translucent Polycarbonate and Sustainable Timber Integration

Authors:
Minghan Lin, Myungin Lee
Curvilinear Sanctuary Featuring Translucent Polycarbonate and Sustainable Timber Integration

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms of translucent polycarbonate and warm timber create a reflective space amid a snowy landscape, designed for community engagement and personal introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear architecture integrates with the snowy landscape, enhancing visual harmony.
02
Translucent polycarbonate panels allow natural light diffusion while ensuring energy efficiency.
03
Community terraces promote social interaction, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Meditation areas are intentionally designed for acoustic privacy, supporting focused contemplation.
05
Use of charred wooden shingles provides weather-resilience and a sustainable aesthetic.
The architectural design project titled "The Third Space" represents a modern approach to creating a reflective environment that fosters creativity and personal introspection. This unique structure is envisioned as a retreat, detached from traditional home or office settings, offering a dedicated space for individuals seeking solitude and mental clarity. It combines natural elements with a functional architectural framework to support a variety of uses.

The overall design integrates aspects such as open living areas, meditation spaces, and communal terraces, encouraging both personal reflection and social interaction. The layout facilitates movement and exploration, emphasizing fluid spatial organization. Key functional areas are arranged to provide users with the necessary resources for both contemplation and creativity.

The primary building showcases a curvilinear form, distinguished by a harmonious balance between solid surfaces and transparent expanses. This architectural approach not only invites natural light into the interior but also allows occupants to maintain a connection with the surrounding environment. The project's location amid a snowy landscape enhances its serene atmosphere, supporting the idea of a peaceful retreat.

Material choices play a critical role in the design outcome. The use of wood cladding, polycarbonate panels, concrete, and glass contributes to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the project. Wood cladding is implemented for warmth and insulation, while polycarbonate panels create an interplay of light and transparency. Concrete serves as a sturdy framework, vital for the structure's resilience in harsh weather, and glass maximizes views and natural light.

The Third Space distinguishes itself through its emphasis on wellness-focused design and community engagement. Various usable outdoor terraces extend the living space, encouraging interaction among users while blending the indoors with the outdoors. The meditation spaces are intentionally isolated, designed to facilitate focused contemplation. These features promote not only individual well-being but also community connection within a tranquil setting.

The architectural design employs methodologies that prioritize environmental integration alongside user experience. The building’s curvature and arrangement are tailored to fit organically within the landscape, establishing a visual dialogue with the natural surroundings. This consideration extends to the selection of materials, chosen for their capacity to perform effectively in a snowy climate while maintaining a connection to nature.

For those interested in a detailed understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, a thorough exploration of "The Third Space" presentation is encouraged. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into this thoughtfully designed architectural project and its commitment to enhancing the human experience through meaningful spaces.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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