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Exploring Emptiness Through Seasonal Light and Reflection

Author:
Chen-Hsiang Chao
Exploring Emptiness Through Seasonal Light and Reflection

Project in-detail

Rooted in the interplay of light and reflection, the design channels the rhythms of nature through seasonal alignment, creating a meditative space that enhances the experience of contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Emphasizes the relationship between form and emptiness.
02
Aligns with astronomical events for seasonal light variation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for enhanced structural integrity.
04
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for sustainability and efficiency.

Reflections of Awe is a project that explores the concepts of form and emptiness in a thoughtful and engaging manner. Located in a landscape designed for reflection, the structure encourages visitors to connect with their environment. It creates spaces that facilitate contemplation, making the experience of being within the building just as important as the architecture itself.

Conceptual Framework

The design emphasizes the idea that "form does not differ from emptiness." This perspective questions traditional views of architectural solidity and suggests a more fluid approach to space. By incorporating themes such as rotation and reflection, the structure invites movement and interaction. This encourages users to think about their experiences and how they relate to the space around them.

Temporal Alignment

The project acknowledges significant astronomical events, such as the Vernal Equinox and Winter Solstice, integrating them into its design. Aligning the architecture with these celestial markers allows for a strong connection between the building and the rhythms of nature. Visitors can experience different light qualities throughout the year, heightening their awareness of time and the changing seasons.

Materiality and Transparency

While specific materials are not mentioned, there is an implication of lightness and transparency in the design. This reinforces the ideas of openness and flow between inside and outside. The focus on visual connection allows people to feel engaged with their surroundings. It creates a setting where visitors can fully enjoy the environment, enhancing the meditative nature of the space.

The architectural elements are carefully arranged to highlight the effects of light and shadow. Each detail contributes to a calm atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and reflect. Such an approach transforms the building into a place of introspection and thoughtful interaction with the world outside.

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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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