Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

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

Emphasizing Light and Shadow Through Perforated Aluminum Panels in a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Residence
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in