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Curvilinear Sanctuary with Raw Stone and Glulam Structure

Authors:
Shafik Kamarulzaman, Azrul Muhamad, Emil johan Ismail, Taufik Zuhaili Nashrudin
Curvilinear Sanctuary with Raw Stone and Glulam Structure

Project in-detail

A curvilinear form combined with a glulam structure and raw stone elements creates a tranquil sanctuary designed for meditation and communal reflection amidst a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear form enhances natural flow and connection to the landscape.
02
Glulam structural elements provide strength while maintaining a lightweight appearance.
03
Sunken pods within the design create intimate spaces for reflection.
04
Incorporation of local raw stone reinforces ties to the surrounding environment.
05
Amphitheater-like undercroft fosters community engagement and interaction.

Surrounded by trees in a peaceful clearing, the design creates a space for meditation and reflection. The structure features a curvilinear form, moving from open to enclosed areas. This approach fosters a calming atmosphere for visitors seeking solitude and connection with nature.

Design Concept
The main idea behind the design is to guide visitors through different experiences as they move through the space. The entrance starts open, encouraging an initial sense of welcome. As visitors progress, they find themselves in more intimate areas, enhancing feelings of safety and engagement with the surroundings. Incisions placed in the facade allow light to enter while maintaining privacy, promoting a strong relationship between the interior and the natural environment outside.

Material Integration
Careful choices in materials emphasize the connection to the site. Plywood and timber shingles serve as cladding, contributing warmth and texture. The use of local raw stone in the altar and seating helps ground the structure in its landscape, creating a tactile experience for occupants. These materials work together to merge the indoor and outdoor settings.

Structural Elements
The structure relies on glulam beams for its framework, giving it both strength and an organic appearance. These elements support the flowing lines and shapes that define the overall design. Windows with double glazing and aluminum frames let in plenty of natural light, keeping the interior comfortable while enhancing energy efficiency.

Community Engagement
A significant aspect of the space is the undercroft, designed as an amphitheater. This area encourages social interaction while still allowing for personal contemplation. The layout balances individual and group activities, ensuring the space is flexible and adaptable to various uses.

In the center, an altar provides a focal point for reflection. Soft light filters through the openings, creating a peaceful environment that surrounds visitors. The combination of materials and light brings a sense of calm, making the space a true sanctuary for those who enter.

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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

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