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Elevated Spaces with Natural Pine and Diagonal Wall Design

Author:
Alicia Hergenroeder
Elevated Spaces with Natural Pine and Diagonal Wall Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with local pine and defined by a central diagonal wall, the elevated structure offers flexible spaces for meditation and creativity while integrating seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with local pine, enhancing its connection to the surrounding landscape.
02
The design features a central diagonal wall that allows for distinct areas of focus and expansion.
03
Windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light while providing panoramic views.
04
The elevated structure addresses seasonal challenges, such as snow accumulation.
05
Includes collapsible furniture for versatile use within the meditation and creativity spaces.

The design focuses on creating spaces dedicated to meditation and creativity, situated in a peaceful landscape. It aims to foster personal reflection and interaction with nature. The overall concept emphasizes the careful arrangement of spaces to enhance sensory experiences while supporting individual practices.

Spatial Organization

Two main areas are defined within the structure, joined by a central diagonal wall. This design allows the spaces to serve different purposes, with one zone for meditation and the other for creative activities. The arrangement facilitates user flexibility, making it possible for occupants to engage in various practices according to their needs.

Window Design

Windows are carefully positioned to enhance the overall experience. The horizontal window, which is paired with a lower ceiling, creates an intimate space that offers wide views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for activities like writing or drawing. In contrast, the vertical window increases the perception of height, focusing attention on the natural scenery outside and creating a pronounced connection with the environment.

Elevation and Ground Plane

Three linear stem walls elevate the building above the ground level, a feature that considers seasonal changes such as snow accumulation. This elevation not only provides practical benefits but also fosters a stronger connection between the interior space and the outside. The raised floor creates a sense of detachment from the ground, inviting users to engage with the environment while enjoying the shelter of the structure.

Material Selection

The choice of local pine for cladding showcases a commitment to environmental principles and regional relevance. Additionally, recycled materials are used for insulation, reflecting an awareness of sustainability. These choices enhance both the performance of the building and its visual harmony within the landscape.

Elements like the thoughtfully placed windows and the raised floors reflect a goal of merging the built environment with nature. Such details encourage users to participate actively in their surroundings, making the space conducive to both meditation and creative thought.

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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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