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Embracing Shadows with Fabric and Translucency in a Residential Retreat

Authors:
Wai yan Oo, Kyal Sin Moe, Zwe Yan Naing Hla Moe, Thae Thiri Tun
Embracing Shadows with Fabric and Translucency in a Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Drawing upon the interplay of fabric and translucent materials, the design captures the essence of shadow to create a contemplative residential retreat that invites reflection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates fabric to create silhouettes that enhance the surrounding environment.
02
Utilizes translucent materials to blur the lines between interior and exterior.
03
Incorporates a diverse array of functional spaces for varied use.
04
Explores the concept of memory through the dynamic play of light and shadow.
05
Emphasizes a strong connection with nature through thoughtful spatial organization.

Evanescence is a design that examines the fleeting nature of human life. It is situated in an environment that connects both the natural and the built world. The focus is on creating spaces that allow people to engage with their surroundings while reflecting on their experiences. By emphasizing the idea of impermanence, the design encourages occupants to explore their interactions with light and shadow within the spaces.

Conceptual Framework

The design breaks down large areas into smaller, open spaces. This fragmentation facilitates transitions between indoor and outdoor environments. Each space is designed to encourage interaction and movement, aligning practical needs with a theme centered on the passage of time. The layout promotes a connection to nature, inviting its presence into day-to-day life.

Materiality and Experience

Materials play a significant role in conveying the project's themes. Fabric is utilized to create outlines that highlight the surroundings. This element encourages a connection between the architecture and its context. In addition, translucent materials such as glass and polycarbonate offer a sense of openness while still providing privacy. The manipulation of these materials shapes how spaces are viewed, fostering a contemplative experience that reflects on life’s transient qualities.

Spatial Organization

Evanescence includes a variety of functional spaces, including a closet, library, kitchen, courtyard, meditation cabin, bathroom, toilet, working space, bedroom, and living room. Each area is thoughtfully planned to serve a specific purpose. Together, these spaces emphasize a theme of impermanence and create an experience that adapts to its occupants while meeting everyday needs.

Shadows play a crucial role within the design. They evoke memories and signify the passage of time throughout the day. This movement of light creates a rich visual experience. It encourages occupants to reflect on their surroundings and the daily changes that accompany life. The shifting shadows invite thought and create an environment where the interplay between light and dark mirrors the transitions occurring in human experiences.

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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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