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Curvilinear Structures of Plaster and Brick Harmonize With Natural Landscapes in Community Living

Author:
Harri Ahonen
Curvilinear Structures of Plaster and Brick Harmonize With Natural Landscapes in Community Living

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms crafted from local brick and smooth plaster create a harmonious dialogue with the surrounding landscape, fostering community interactions in a thoughtfully designed living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a radial courtyard that encourages communal interaction while providing private spaces for residents.
02
Curvilinear forms create integrated sightlines, enhancing the connection between living areas and the surrounding landscape.
03
Local brick and smooth plaster are utilized to blend the structures seamlessly with the environment and promote sustainability.
04
Large windows enhance natural light penetration, maximizing warmth and reducing energy consumption throughout the year.
05
Step-up building heights support varying views, contributing to the visual diversity of the landscaping and enhancing the residents' experience.
The architectural project "Fiore" is a thoughtful exploration of community-oriented living within a picturesque landscape characterized by rolling hills and distant mountain ranges. This design aims to create a harmonious blend of human habitation and the natural environment, encapsulating the essence of modern living while fostering social interaction among residents. By employing a radial layout, the project emphasizes the importance of shared communal spaces while maximizing individual privacy and connectivity to the surrounding landscape.

Representing a new paradigm in residential architecture, the project is designed to function as a multi-unit dwelling, accommodating various living arrangements that cater to the needs of diverse residents. At its heart lies a central courtyard, which serves as a key gathering space, promoting social interaction and enhancing community ties. This spatial configuration allows each unit to have direct access to communal areas while also maintaining a sense of independence, reflecting a balance that is often sought in contemporary housing developments.

The important parts of the "Fiore" project include a series of individual living units, each carefully positioned around the central courtyard. This design strategy not only encourages a sense of belonging but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the project. Each living unit is designed with large windows that frame views of the beautiful landscape, inviting natural light into the interiors and establishing a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. The strategic placement of these windows enhances the experience of living while fostering an engagement with nature.

In terms of materiality, the project features a curated palette that includes plaster, brick, glass, wood, metal sheets, roofing tiles, and insulation materials. The use of plaster for both exterior and interior finishes creates a cohesive aesthetic that is both smooth and inviting. Brickwork adds warmth and structural integrity, while glass is extensively utilized to achieve transparency and continuity throughout the spaces. Wood is incorporated in finishes, further enhancing the warmth of each unit, while metal sheets and roofing tiles provide durability and modern elegance.

One of the unique design approaches evident in the "Fiore" project is its curvilinear forms, which create a softer architectural silhouette compared to conventional structures. This design choice contributes to an inviting atmosphere that encourages pedestrian movement and interaction. The layering of textures across the buildings not only enriches the visual language of the project but also contributes to the sensory experience of the residents, making the spaces feel more approachable and comfortable.

Additionally, the stepped design within the structures allows for varied heights that improve sightlines while adding visual interest. Each unit is carefully orientated to optimize views, ensuring that residents enjoy their surroundings from multiple vantage points. The thoughtful integration of greenery and outdoor spaces into the project further encourages a lifestyle that embraces outdoor activities and well-being, reinforcing the connection between built and natural environments.

The "Fiore" architectural project exemplifies a balanced relationship between functional living spaces and the beauty of nature. Its commitment to sustainability is reflected in the use of locally sourced materials, promoting environmental responsibility and reducing transportation emissions associated with construction. This resonates well with contemporary architectural ideas that emphasize the significance of ecological awareness within design practices.

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this project, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and various designs will reveal the intricate thought processes and design methodologies behind "Fiore." Exploring these elements provides valuable insights into how this project not only meets the practical needs of its residents but also enriches their living experience through a conscious approach to architecture and a commitment to community.
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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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