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Engaging Community Space Featuring Cork and Timber in a Hexagonal Form

Authors:
Mark Robinson, Tim Willmet
Engaging Community Space Featuring Cork and Timber in a Hexagonal Form

Project in-detail

A hexagonal structure with cork flooring and timber elements embodies the principles of sacred geometry, providing a communal space that fosters connection and engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal shape incorporates principles of sacred geometry.
02
Central fireplace promotes social interaction and communal activities.
03
Cork flooring features engravings representing the tree of life.
04
Timber elements provide structural integrity and warmth throughout.
05
Panoramic views enhance the connection to the surrounding forest.

The "Earth Energies 'Hive'" incorporates the principles of sacred geometry in a design that emphasizes community and connection. Positioned in a natural setting, the structure is designed to serve as a communal space, fostering engagement among its users. The hexagonal shape is central to its concept, symbolizing harmony and balance while enhancing the overall experience within the environment.

Design Concept

The hexagon is more than a simple geometric shape; it embodies deeper meanings related to dual energies. Each triangle within the hexagon represents a type of energy—one positive and upward, the other negative and downward. This fundamental idea influences how spaces are organized and how individuals relate to one another inside the hive, encouraging interactions that honor these energy dynamics.

Functional Elements

A central gathering area features a fireplace that serves as a focal point for social activities. This element provides warmth and functionality, allowing for tasks such as boiling water for herbal teas or cacao ceremonies. The fireplace not only enhances comfort but also strengthens the sense of community by inviting people to gather, share, and connect.

Material Integration

Cork slabs make up the flooring of the structure, chosen for their aesthetic and practical benefits. Engravings featuring thirteen circles symbolize the tree of life, reflecting a connection to higher consciousness and nature. Timber is also used throughout the design, contributing to the structural framework and adding warmth to the spaces, encouraging a closer relationship with the natural world.

Spatial Organization

The design carefully balances hierarchy and equality, making it easy to move around and see different areas of the space. Large windows provide wide views of the surrounding forest, allowing users to feel connected to the environment. This consideration of spatial dynamics not only facilitates movement but also supports educational interactions, promoting a lively atmosphere for learning and collaboration.

The balance of practical and symbolic elements creates an environment where people can engage with each other and the natural setting, enriching their overall experience and connection with the space.

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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

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