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Dynamic Glass Facades and Communal Courtyards in Sustainable Circular Housing

Authors:
Adela Ho, Eric Zimmerman
Dynamic Glass Facades and Communal Courtyards in Sustainable Circular Housing

Project in-detail

Circular housing integrates dynamic glass facades and post-tension concrete structures to create energy-efficient living spaces that foster community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular layout optimizes space and enhances community interaction.
02
Dynamic glass facades provide energy efficiency and aesthetic transparency.
03
Post-tension concrete supports structural integrity while minimizing bulk.
04
Central communal courtyard fosters social connectivity among residents.
05
Variety of unit types accommodates diverse family sizes and income levels.

### Overview

The design presents a residential development focused on addressing housing density and affordability in urban environments. Situated in a metropolitan area characterized by high demand for living spaces, the structure employs a circular configuration that aims to optimize land use while fostering community interaction. The intent is to create a functional living environment that marries contemporary aesthetics with practical solutions tailored for urban contexts.

### Building Configuration and Spatial Strategy

The project features a circular, tower-like structure designed to facilitate communal living. Each unit opens to shared communal areas that encourage resident interaction, enhancing connectivity within the development. The layout maximizes natural light accessibility while ensuring privacy among residents, with a total of 216 units distributed across six floors. The circular organization creates a central open court, which serves as a community space and facilitates the flow of movement throughout the building.

The design includes multiple unit types that cater to diverse living needs, featuring adaptable floor plans. For instance, the lower-level units prioritize accessibility with ample glass surfaces, while mezzanine units incorporate flexible layouts designed for bright, inviting living conditions. Safety protocols, including clearly marked evacuation routes, align with modern regulatory standards, underscoring a commitment to resident welfare.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction approach emphasizes the use of innovative materials that enhance both energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Insulated Glass Units (IGUs) are utilized to improve insulation while allowing for visual continuity between the interior and exterior spaces. Curtain wall systems contribute to passive solar gain, facilitating natural ventilation within the living environment. Post-tension concrete slabs enhance structural strength while minimizing the footprint of structural elements, thereby maximizing usable space.

Moreover, the integration of dynamic glass allows residents to adjust light exposure according to their comfort, promoting energy efficiency. The entire design reflects an alignment with sustainable practices, focusing on reducing energy consumption and enhancing the ecological balance in urban settings. The project’s unique circular geometry not only provides structural stability but also actively encourages social interaction, setting it apart from conventional high-rise developments.

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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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