Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Spaces Enhanced With Large Glass Openings and Concrete Foundations in A Community-Focused Micro-Unit Development

Authors:
Daniela Burki, Margherita Chiozzi, Yindela Iannazzone
Curvilinear Spaces Enhanced With Large Glass Openings and Concrete Foundations in A Community-Focused Micro-Unit Development

Project in-detail

Defined by curvilinear forms and extensive glazing that melds with its industrial heritage, this micro-unit development fosters community interaction while addressing urban housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear internal layouts promote unobstructed circulation and social interaction.
02
Extensive use of glass provides transparency and maximizes natural light.
03
Concrete foundations enhance structural stability while maintaining an industrial aesthetic.
04
The design incorporates modular units for flexible living arrangements.
05
Community spaces are integrated to encourage collaboration among residents.
The Skulpturenhalle architectural project is a transformative initiative focused on repurposing an existing industrial building into a cohesive micro-community aimed at alleviating housing shortages in urban settings. The design emphasizes adaptability, functionality, and aesthetic integration with historical elements. This project not only addresses immediate residential needs but also fosters community engagement by creating shared spaces that enhance social interaction among residents.

The design consists of thoughtfully arranged micro-units that offer flexibility in living arrangements while preserving the industrial character of the existing structure. The architectural approach prioritizes natural light through extensive glazing, interspersed with robust materials that maintain structural integrity. This project reflects a commitment to sustainability and local heritage, making it relevant in today's context of urban housing challenges.

Innovative Use of Space and Materiality

One of the unique aspects of Skulpturenhalle is its approach to merging contemporary architectural language with the site’s historical context. The internal spatial configuration diverges from typical housing layouts, incorporating curved forms that soften the industrial aesthetic. This design encourages fluid movement and interaction among residents, differentiating it from other residential projects that often rely on traditional linear layouts. The use of materials such as concrete, glass, steel, wood, and aluminum was carefully chosen to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Concrete provides structural support while allowing the brilliance of large glass openings, which facilitate natural light while connecting indoor and outdoor environments. Wood finishes add warmth to the interiors, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

Community-Centric Design and Sustainability

A critical component of the project is its focus on community. The design integrates communal areas where residents can collaborate and engage, promoting a strong sense of belonging. This aligns with the broader objective of creating micro-communities within urban landscapes. Further, the adaptive reuse of the building addresses sustainability challenges; by transforming an existing structure rather than constructing new, there is a significant reduction in resource consumption and environmental impact.

The Skulpturenhalle project exemplifies a contemporary solution to urban housing dilemmas while respecting and enhancing existing architectural heritage. For a comprehensive understanding, readers are encouraged to explore elements like architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that further illustrate the unique ideas behind this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy