Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Fabric-Centric Design Embracing Shadow Hierarchy in Residential Living

Authors:
Yoon ju Choi, Hyun min Lee
Fabric-Centric Design Embracing Shadow Hierarchy in Residential Living

Project in-detail

Integrating fabric as a primary element to create dynamic shadow patterns, the design enhances spatial experiences while maximizing natural light in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates fabric to shape light and shadow dynamics throughout the interior.
02
Features an east-west-oriented bedroom for optimal morning light.
03
Utilizes varying fabric densities to influence shadow intensity in different rooms.
04
Applies distinct color temperatures to enhance the ambiance of active and restful spaces.
05
Maximizes south-facing windows to capture natural light across all areas.

The site in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea, showcases a residential design that centers on how light and shadow interact within living spaces. The design emphasizes the concept of shadow hierarchy, inspired by the natural effects of clouds and trees on light conditions. Every aspect of the layout is crafted to respond to the sun’s path, promoting a connection between the interior and the surrounding environment.

Orientation and Spatial Configuration

Living spaces are organized with careful attention to orientation. The main areas, including the kitchen, dining room, and workroom, face south to capture maximum sunlight. In contrast, the bedroom is aligned in an east-west direction, which helps differentiate how light influences each area. This arrangement creates distinct atmospheres that cater to both daily activities and moments of rest.

Materiality and Shadow Play

Fabric serves as the primary material throughout the home, playing an important role in shaping the experience of light and shadow. Lighter fabrics produce subtle shadows, while denser materials cast deeper shadows. This choice of fabric impacts not only the room's appearance but also how it feels when inhabited. It furthers the project’s exploration of the relationship between shadow and space, inviting a unique sense of depth and texture.

Color Temperature and Atmosphere

A thoughtful approach to color temperature enhances the mood of each space within the home. Active areas feature a cooler color temperature of 6500K, while restful areas are bathed in a warmer 2700K light. This strategy helps create environments that support various functions throughout the day, reinforcing the design's aim of promoting comfort and well-being.

A notable aspect of the design becomes apparent as natural light shifts during the day. The changing patterns cast by the fabric choices create an experience that evolves, providing a continuous connection to the time of day and the outside world. The interiors transform, responding to the rhythms of nature while offering a calming space for those who dwell within.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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 17,725 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