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Ecological Corridors Wrapped in Transparent Glass and Sustainable Wood Within a Community Hub

Author:
Jiahua Zou
Ecological Corridors Wrapped in Transparent Glass and Sustainable Wood Within a Community Hub

Project in-detail

Transparent glass facades and ecological corridors integrate seamlessly with community spaces crafted from sustainable wood, fostering interaction while enhancing the local environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent facades enhance natural light and views while minimizing energy consumption.
02
Ecological corridors are incorporated to support local wildlife movement through the built environment.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while promoting sustainable practices.
04
A bent A-frame design creates unique spatial experiences and optimizes ventilation.
05
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and contribute to fire resistance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

# Architectural Design Report: Scar Stitch Project

## Project Overview
Located in the East African Rift Valley, the Scar Stitch project seeks to create an interconnected network of buildings that align with the region's dramatic topography. The design focuses on the dual objectives of urban development and ecological restoration, aiming to enhance local biodiversity while integrating with the natural landscape. The architectural approach emphasizes a connection between built environments and the surrounding ecosystem, reflecting a deep awareness of the area's unique geological characteristics.

## Spatial Organization and Functionality
The architectural composition is organized into three distinct levels, each serving specific community and residential functions.

The **Upper Level** accommodates apartments and leisure spaces, characterized by large glass panels that provide natural light and expansive views. This level creates an impression of floating above the ground, with organic building contours that echo the natural forms of the landscape.

The **Middle Level** serves as a transitional space, featuring communal areas such as an entrance lobby and leisure spaces. The fluid design encourages social interaction, utilizing an open layout that promotes natural ventilation and daylighting, allowing occupants to navigate through the environment intuitively.

The **Lower Level** integrates communal services and functionality for residents and visitors. Designed to be welcoming, this area features ample communal spaces that encourage interaction, alongside vegetation that fosters a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, a dedicated **Plant Cultivation Area** is incorporated to support local flora and environmental education, enhancing the project’s biodiversity initiatives.

## Material Selection and Environmental Integration
The material palette of the Scar Stitch project has been meticulously chosen to support its ecological and aesthetic goals.

**Transparent glass** is employed throughout the structure to maximize natural light and views while reflecting the surrounding landscape, facilitating a visual connection to the environment. **Reinforced concrete** serves as the structural framework, delivering stability in the rugged landscape.

The inclusion of **green roofing elements** will enhance insulation, promote local biodiversity, and manage stormwater effectively. **Thermal insulation materials** contribute to indoor climate control, minimizing energy consumption. **Sustainable wood** is utilized in internal furnishings, contributing to a warm aesthetic while ensuring responsible sourcing practices.

This thoughtful integration of materials supports the project’s overarching goal of enhancing both urban living and ecological awareness. By prioritizing functionality and sustainability throughout the design, the Scar Stitch project establishes a framework for future architectural endeavors that aim to harmonize human activities with nature.

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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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