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Endless Views Framed By Glass and Natural Stone In A Raised Coastal Retreat

Author:
Ioan-cătălin Ralea-toma
Endless Views Framed By Glass and Natural Stone In A Raised Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Composed of expansive glass façades and natural stone elements, the elevated structure offers panoramic coastal views while serving as a modern residential retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Seamless integration of expansive glass walls enhances panoramic views while minimizing structural barriers.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles promotes fire resistance and low maintenance.
03
Elevated design optimizes natural ventilation and prevents flooding exposure.
04
Natural stone elements reflect the local geology, creating a contextual aesthetic.
05
Automated systems enhance energy efficiency, adapting to environmental conditions.

### Overview

Located along a coastal setting, the Beach House is a residential design that prioritizes the relationship between architecture and the natural landscape. The intent of the design is to create a living space that offers both the comfort of modern amenities and a connection to the serene environment, facilitating a tranquil lifestyle distinct from urbanity.

### Spatial Interaction and Functional Organization

The design features an open-plan layout that encompasses the main living areas, significantly enhancing the experience of spatial flow while maximizing views and natural light. Large glass walls eliminate barriers between interior and exterior spaces, allowing for a fluid transition that integrates the surrounding environment with daily living. The upper level is dedicated to private quarters, designed for privacy and comfort, each equipped with large windows and balconies that further engage with the vistas of the coastline.

Outdoor spaces are seamlessly incorporated into the overall design, with extensive terraces and an infinity pool that extends toward the ocean, promoting outdoor living and recreation. This thoughtful organization of space not only enhances user experience but also emphasizes the connection to nature that defines the project.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A strategic selection of materials underpins the design, focusing on sustainability and durability. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, extensive use of glass for transparency, and natural wood and stone to foster warmth and texture throughout the space. Metal components balance modern aesthetics with functional requirements.

The project incorporates several sustainability measures, such as energy-efficient systems and the thoughtful placement of windows to maximize natural shading. This approach minimizes ecological impact while ensuring the longevity of the structure and enhancing overall user comfort.

The elevated design carefully respects the local topography, allowing for unobstructed views while reducing disruption to the natural environment. With a modern minimalist aesthetic characterized by clean lines and functional simplicity, the Beach House exemplifies a contemporary approach to residential architecture that prioritizes harmony with nature and user experience.

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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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