Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Ecological Birdwatching Tower Featuring Kingspan and Troldtekt in a Curved Egg Shape

Author:
Sung Jin Cho
Ecological Birdwatching Tower Featuring Kingspan and Troldtekt in a Curved Egg Shape

Project in-detail

Embodying the form of a delicate egg, this birdwatching tower utilizes Kingspan and Troldtekt materials to harmonize with its natural surroundings while providing a functional space for observing wildlife in the Sebino Nature Reserve.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure’s egg shape minimizes visual impact on the landscape and reflects local nesting habits.
02
Kingspan insulation enhances energy efficiency while providing durability against the elements.
03
Troldtekt acoustic panels improve sound insulation, creating a quieter environment for wildlife observation.
04
A rainwater harvesting system supports sustainability and reduces reliance on external water sources.
05
Strategically positioned to reduce human intrusion on surrounding wildlife habitats.

### Overview

Located in the Sebino Nature Reserve along Iseo Lake in Italy, the "Micro Home in the Shell" serves as a birdwatching tower that integrates human activity with the local ecosystem. The design aims to enhance user interaction with the rich biodiversity of the area while providing a sanctuary for both visitors and wildlife. The structure's form and arrangement reflect a commitment to ecological mindfulness and preservation.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement

The egg-shaped design of the structure highlights the relationship between the built environment and the natural world, evoking themes of nesting and protection. The interior layout features distinct functional zones, including public observation areas, private observatories, and living spaces, facilitating a range of user experiences. This multifaceted approach allows for both social interaction and solitary observation, catering to diverse user needs while ensuring ongoing engagement with the surrounding landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The materials utilized in the construction prioritize sustainability and efficiency. The outer shell is crafted from a waterproof and insulated product by Kingspan, enhancing energy performance and durability. The interior space features Troldtekt acoustic ceiling tiles, promoting sound insulation to enhance the user experience during birdwatching. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system using a Kingspan Silum tank underscores the project's commitment to eco-friendliness and self-sufficiency. The design carefully integrates into the natural surroundings, with placement considerations that minimize disruption to wildlife and their habitats.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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