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Emphasizing Light and Shadow Through Perforated Aluminum Panels in a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Residence

Author:
Frank Sheng
Emphasizing Light and Shadow Through Perforated Aluminum Panels in a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Residence

Project in-detail

Perforated aluminum panels create an intricate play of light and shadow, seamlessly blending the interior and exterior to enhance the living experience in this sustainable residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated aluminum panels create dynamic shadow patterns that shift throughout the day.
02
Extensive glass surfaces maximize daylight while providing unobstructed views of the landscape.
03
The open floor plan encourages flexibility and communal interaction among residents.
04
Native plant landscaping reinforces the home’s connection to its local environment.
05
The design emphasizes energy efficiency through the manipulation of natural light.

### Project Overview
Located in a vibrant setting, the design titled "The Home of Shadows" explores the relationship between architecture and the dynamic presence of light. This project, submitted for Edition #2 of an architecture competition focused on the theme of "Carnival," aims to create a space that promotes interaction with its environment while illuminating the festive spirit inherent to such celebrations. The architectural intent is to enhance natural light exposure while integrating harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

### Light Manipulation and Spatial Dynamics
The project employs engineered perforated panel systems to strategically manage sunlight, producing variable light patterns that bring a playful dimension to the interior spaces. These panels are influenced by carnival motifs, introducing designs that echo the themes of joy and vibrancy. The entry court is particularly notable for its light-filtering capabilities, casting colorful shadows across living areas and creating a visually engaging atmosphere. The overall open floor plan facilitates unobstructed movement between spaces, fostering both communal engagement and personal reflection.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
Materiality plays a significant role in the design's aesthetic and functional success. The primary element, high-quality aluminum perforated panels, is durable and adept at filtering light, thus establishing a unique interior ambiance. Extensive use of glass reinforces the connection between indoor and outdoor environments, maximizing natural light while framing views of the landscape. Additionally, the use of warm wooden flooring complements the natural light and enhances the sense of comfort. Surrounding landscaped gardens, featuring native plants, further enrich the environment and facilitate interactions, offering pathways and sitting areas that encourage outdoor engagement.

Key design features include the innovative sunlight manipulation, which reduces reliance on artificial lighting, and a culturally responsive aesthetic that resonates with local architectural traditions. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day results in a variable experience, ensuring that the atmosphere of the home evolves with environmental changes.

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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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