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Exploring Light and Shadow in a Sensory-Focused Environment

Authors:
Hanyue Yin, Wenbing Mi, Yian Shi, Yang Yu
Exploring Light and Shadow in a Sensory-Focused Environment

Project in-detail

A seamless interplay of light and shadow defines an immersive environment designed for visually impaired individuals, fostering sensory engagement and independence through thoughtfully organized spaces for daily living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The layout includes distinct sensory therapy areas for enhanced wellbeing.
02
Natural light is strategically utilized to create varying atmospheres throughout the day.
03
The integration of a courtyard encourages outdoor interaction and exploration.
04
Thoughtful organization promotes user independence and ease of navigation.
05
Light and shadow are essential design elements that enhance sensory experiences.

The Sensory Shadows project focuses on creating an environment specifically designed for visually impaired and blind individuals. It explores the relationship between shadow and light while promoting sensory experiences. The design prioritizes meaningful engagement with surroundings and thoughtful interactions that go beyond visual limitations. The essence of this project lies in providing a space that invites exploration and connection.

Spatial Organization

The layout includes clearly defined functional areas that support daily activities. A dining room and kitchen serve as shared spaces where people can prepare and enjoy meals together. This encourages social interaction and a sense of community. Adjacent to these areas is a courtyard that offers an outdoor setting for physical activities, inviting users to connect with nature, enhancing overall well-being.



Therapeutic Environments

Sensory therapy is an important focus in this environment, promoting health and relaxation through well-designed spaces. A dedicated bathroom caters to personal care needs, while the arrangement of the bedroom offers comfort and privacy. Each area has been thoughtfully organized to ensure ease of movement and access, supporting independence and daily living.



Light and Shadow Integration

Light and shadow play a critical role in how the space is experienced. Rather than serving only aesthetic purposes, they are essential elements that create depth in the environment. Natural light filters through, changing the mood throughout the day. Users can appreciate the subtle differences in light, which contribute to their sensory engagement and overall experience within the space.



Thoughtful integration of sensory elements creates a rich environment that resonates with the lives of visually impaired individuals. The design culminates in a harmonious setting where the gentle interplay of light and shadow works to enhance the experience of every user, encouraging interaction and discovery.

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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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