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Exploring Light and Shadow Through Precast Concrete and Natural Wood in Residential Space

Author:
Eugeni Bru Golobart
Exploring Light and Shadow Through Precast Concrete and Natural Wood in Residential Space

Project in-detail

The interplay of natural wood and precast concrete creates a dynamic environment that emphasizes light and shadow, crafting a residential space that fosters a deep connection with its surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique integration of precast concrete arches that diffuse incoming light.
02
Strategic use of charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic depth.
03
Careful orientation of openings to maximize natural light throughout the day.
04
Reflective pool designed to amplify light dynamics and offer visual tranquility.
05
Incorporation of indigenous plants to strengthen the connection between built and natural environments.

## Overview

Tanizaki's House, located in a thoughtfully selected context that emphasizes the relationship between natural light and the surrounding landscape, is designed to reflect the principles of Japanese aesthetics articulated in Jun'ichirō Tanizaki's essay "In Praise of Shadows." The intent is to create a living space that integrates seamlessly with nature while providing a dynamic experience of light and shadow that influences the daily rhythms of its occupants.

### Spatial Strategy

The spatial configuration of Tanizaki's House is informed by the sun's movement, featuring strategically placed openings that respond to changing light conditions throughout the day. This design enables varied experiences of illumination in different areas, such as the study, kitchen, and pool zone, which are distinctly shaped by morning, afternoon, and evening light. The layout facilitates a continuous interaction between the interior and exterior environments, allowing inhabitants to engage meaningfully with natural rhythms.

### Material and Nature Integration

The material palette combines modern elements with traditional Japanese influences, incorporating concrete for structural integrity, locally sourced stone for textural contrast, and warm woods to enhance interior warmth. The extensive use of glass reinforces visual connections with the outdoors, fostering a dialogue between the indoor and natural surroundings. The landscaping incorporates strategically placed vegetation and water features, further blurring the boundaries between built form and nature while enriching the interplay of light and shadow throughout the home.

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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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