Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Exposed Stone and Timber Cladding in A Harmonious Residential Design Embracing Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Julia Kong, Jahoon Kwon
Exposed Stone and Timber Cladding in A Harmonious Residential Design Embracing Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Employing locally-sourced stone and warm timber cladding, the design integrates seamlessly with the Norwegian landscape while providing a tranquil residential space oriented around panoramic views and natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Local stone is integrated into both the exterior and interior, establishing a direct connection with the environment.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
03
Large panoramic windows are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for efficient structural integrity and a distinctive silhouette.
05
Sustainable practices are prioritized through the selection of eco-friendly materials and construction methods.
The L-House is a residential architectural project located in Norway, situated on a rocky mountain slope that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The design emphasizes functionality while providing a space for interaction and relaxation. Structured as a linear arrangement, the house optimally positions various living spaces to maximize views of the landscape and allow for ample natural light. This project reflects a contemporary approach to architecture by deeply connecting the built environment with the unique geographic features of the site.

Architectural Elements and Functionality

The L-House comprises essential living areas including a living room, kitchen, dining area, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Each space is designed with careful consideration for privacy and communal activities. The living room serves as a central hub, offering immersive views through large windows that connect the interior with the exterior environment. The kitchen, adjacent to the living room, facilitates social interaction, while a spacious dining area enhances the communal experience with natural light flooding through strategically placed windows.

The layout promotes an intuitive circulation path, allowing for easy movement between spaces. Bedrooms and bathrooms are strategically located to provide privacy while still embracing the visual connection to nature. The thoughtful arrangement of these elements underscores the harmony between the residence and its landscape.

Unique Design Approach and Materiality

The design of L-House employs a selection of natural materials, including locally sourced stone and timber. Stone is featured both inside and outside, creating a textural contrast that complements the rugged terrain. Timber adds warmth and comfort, serving various functions within the interior. Expansive glass elements frame views of the surrounding landscape, enabling occupants to experience the changing light conditions throughout the day. Concrete structures are likely integrated to provide necessary stability while allowing for varied spatial expressions.

One unique approach of L-House is its focus on light as an architectural element. The design maximizes natural light, creating dynamic patterns of illumination across the interior spaces. The integration of rock formations within the house enhances its connection to the site and allows for an unbroken dialogue between the interior and the natural environment.

Interrelationship with the Landscape

L-House is not just positioned in the landscape; it exists within the landscape, with its form echoing the topography of the surrounding mountains. Terraces descending from the structure mirror the terrain, reinforcing a sense of continuity between home and site. This thoughtful integration of architecture and nature sets the L-House apart from typical residential designs, elevating it into a holistic experience of living with the environment.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas behind L-House, additional documentation and visual representations of the project are available. Delve deeper to gain insights into its innovative approaches to architecture and design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy