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Double-Curved Glass Facades and Lightweight Construction Above the Cliff for Sustainable Living

Author:
Michael Barnard
Double-Curved Glass Facades and Lightweight Construction Above the Cliff for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with double-curved glass facades and lightweight materials, the design elevates living spaces above a cliff to promote sustainability and enhance interaction with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure promotes natural ventilation and unobstructed views.
02
Incorporates photovoltaic solar panels for energy independence.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural stability.
04
Features a sustainable drainage system integrated into landscaping.
05
Double-curved glass facades provide transparency and minimize heat gain.
The Woven Totem Pods project is an architectural endeavor that exemplifies a gradual merging of human dwellings with the natural environment. Located strategically above a cliff, this project is designed to create a living space that prioritizes transparency, connectivity, and sustainability. Each pod is constructed to offer unique living experiences while fostering a sense of community and ecological awareness. The architectural design reflects a contemporary ethos that emphasizes energy efficiency and harmonious relationships with nature.

Unique Cohesive Design Approaches
The design of the Woven Totem Pods employs a unique pod-based structure, each pod functioning as an independent living unit connected via a central core. This arrangement allows for significant views and natural light, achieved through the use of structural double-curved glass facades. The geometric flexibility of the design not only enhances aesthetic appeal but efficiently maximizes space and functionality. The lightweight construction materials, including monolithic metal tubes and hexagonal poured-in-place concrete, further contribute to the project’s sustainability goals, while photovoltaic solar panels installed on the rooftops provide renewable energy.

Enhanced Site Integration
The architectural layout takes full advantage of the site's topography. Elevated above the ground, the pods create pathways that allow residents to engage with the landscape while maintaining minimal disruption to the ecological balance. The project incorporates outdoor green spaces that enhance biodiversity and encourages recreational activities for residents. The careful arrangement of pods ensures that each living unit feels both private and connected to the wider community, facilitating social interaction while respecting individual living spaces.

The Woven Totem Pods project stands out in its innovative design principles that emphasize sustainability and integration with natural surroundings. The architectural choices, from materials to the structural organization, reflect a forward-thinking approach to modern living. For deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design strategies employed in this project, explore the full presentation to appreciate the detailed architectural ideas that define this unique achievement.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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