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Elevated Living Spaces Crafted with Curvilinear Walls and Transparent Glass Integration in a Serene Forest Environment

Author:
Mateo Deza
Elevated Living Spaces Crafted with Curvilinear Walls and Transparent Glass Integration in a Serene Forest Environment

Project in-detail

Curvilinear walls of sustainable timber and expansive glass allow for seamless integration with the surrounding forest, creating elevated living spaces designed for tranquil retreats in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear walls enhance spatial flow while minimizing visual impact on the landscape.
02
The structure incorporates a floating plinth that elevates living spaces above the forest floor.
03
Sliding glass panels create seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity and natural light penetration.
04
Use of local materials reinforces the project's sustainability and ecological sensitivity.
05
Terraced living areas provide varied perspectives and promote an intimate engagement with nature.
The project, known as "Solid Furniture," is an architectural design intended as a remote hideout in the Cambodian rainforest. The design aims to establish a seamless interaction between the built environment and nature, creating spaces that allow visitors to connect deeply with their surroundings. Its primary function is to serve as a retreat where individuals can seek solitude and inspiration while remaining immersed in the natural landscape.

The architectural structure features a concept of a "floating plinth," which elevates the living areas above ground level, enhancing views and reducing environmental impact. The carefully considered design integrates various elements, such as curved walls and strategic voids, to create a dynamic relationship between interior spaces and the external environment. By utilizing a combination of materials, including concrete, glass, steel, and wood, the project reinforces structural integrity while ensuring aesthetic harmony with its surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches
One distinguishing aspect of the "Solid Furniture" project is its curvilinear façade, which softens the overall visual footprint and promotes a harmonious integration with the natural environment. This is contrasted by the project's use of "poche" to create thick walls that serve dual functions—providing structural support while enclosing services and storage.

The design maximizes transparency through expansive glass elements that facilitate natural light penetration and extend visual access to the landscape. This indoor-outdoor interaction is further enhanced by sliding glass walls that erase boundaries between the interior living spaces and the forest, thus enriching the user experience in various weather conditions.

Another notable feature is the terraced layout that elevates different living spaces, allowing for varied perspectives and interactions with the environment. This attention to elevation not only fosters unique viewpoints but also guides circulation throughout the structure, promoting an intuitive flow that enhances both privacy and community.

Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and locality. Concrete provides a durable foundation, while wood adds warmth and texture to the interiors, emphasizing a tactile connection to the surrounding landscape. Steel elements are utilized to achieve a lightweight structure that supports the cantilevered design. This conscious choice of materials contributes to the overall sustainability of the project, minimizing its ecological footprint while ensuring long-lasting functionality.

The "Solid Furniture" project represents a thoughtful integration of architectural design with the natural environment, focusing on user experience and interaction with surrounding landscapes. For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and diverse design ideas, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for comprehensive insights into this innovative architectural endeavor.
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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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