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Cypress Wood Structure Embracing Light Through Spiraled Void Spaces

Author:
Gencer Islekter
Cypress Wood Structure Embracing Light Through Spiraled Void Spaces

Project in-detail

A spiraled void in a cypress wood structure enhances natural light and connection to the landscape, creating a tranquil residential space that fosters reflection and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central spiraled void enhances airflow and light distribution throughout the home.
02
The design integrates extensive glass surfaces to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Cypress wood is used for structural elements, providing durability and natural aesthetics.
04
Rope features serve both functional and decorative purposes, enriching the design narrative.
05
The stepped layout promotes an evolving spatial experience from public to private areas.

## Overview

Located in Cyprus, the Chamber of Cyparissus is an architectural project inspired by Greek mythology, specifically the narrative of Cyparissus. The design reflects themes of infinity and transformation, aiming to create a harmonious interplay between the built environment and its natural context. The structure's circular form promotes fluidity and continuity, exemplifying a deliberate integration of internal and external spaces, which fosters an immersive experience for its occupants.

## Spatial Configuration and Experience

The innovative spatial configuration features a tiered arrangement, with each ascending level designed to create distinct personal experiences. A central spiraling staircase facilitates movement and metaphorically represents personal growth. Key areas, such as the living space, kitchen, and bedrooms, offer varying levels of openness and privacy, enhancing social interaction while allowing for moments of introspection. Large windows in communal areas invite natural light and visually connect the inhabitants with the surrounding landscape.

### Central Void: The “Spirit Space”

At the heart of the residence lies the “spirit space,” characterized by a vertical void that serves as both a meditative area and a point of connection to the cosmos. This feature is designed to encourage contemplation and reflection, contributing to the broader narrative of transformation inherent in the home’s design.

## Material Choices

The selection of materials is integral to the project's conceptual foundation. Cypress wood is prominently used for its aesthetic warmth and symbolic connection to nature, reflecting the transformative journey of Cyparissus. Expansive glass elements facilitate views of the external environment while maximizing natural light. Concrete forms the structural backbone of the design, ensuring stability, while decorative ropes add visual interest and delineate spaces, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

These material choices reinforce the thematic discourse of connection to nature and the cyclical narrative that the architecture embodies.

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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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