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Fabric-Wrapped Spaces Emphasizing Light and Shadow in Residential Design

Authors:
Yoon ju Choi, Hyun min Lee
Fabric-Wrapped Spaces Emphasizing Light and Shadow in Residential Design

Project in-detail

Wrapped in fabric to create an intricate play of light and shadow, the residential space in Chuncheon is designed with a clear separation of active and restful areas, promoting a harmonious living experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fabric-wrapped walls create dynamic light and shadow effects throughout the home.
02
Living spaces are oriented to maximize southern sunlight exposure.
03
Rest spaces are strategically positioned along an east-west axis for optimal light quality.
04
Color temperatures vary between active and restful areas to enhance the living experience.
05
The design focuses on the hierarchy of shadows as a key architectural element.

The design situated in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea, showcases an understanding of shadows and their hierarchy. It aims to enhance living experiences by emphasizing how light interacts with various elements of the environment. The overall concept reflects a thoughtful engagement with natural phenomena, creating spaces that effectively distinguish between areas meant for activity and those designated for rest.

Conceptual Framework

Shadows are viewed as products of their context, influencing the character of each space. The design draws parallels between the effects of light on natural elements, such as trees and clouds, and how those effects are mirrored within the home. This comparison helps shape the way spaces are organized, encouraging an appreciation for how light and shadow inform daily life.

Spatial Organization

The layout effectively separates active and restful areas, optimizing the benefits of natural light. The living room, dining kitchen, and workroom are oriented towards the south to take full advantage of sunlight. This orientation fosters engagement and activity throughout the day. In contrast, bedrooms are placed along an east-west axis. This positioning helps create a quieter atmosphere, where softer light encourages relaxation and rest.

Application of Color Temperature

Color temperature is used strategically to further enhance the living experience. Active spaces are fitted with a color temperature of 6500K to support alertness and energy. On the other hand, restful areas are designed with a warmer 2700K color temperature, promoting tranquility. This distinction serves both functional and emotional needs, making the atmosphere suitable for different times of the day.

Materials and Design Detail

Fabric is the primary material chosen for its ability to modulate light and shadow throughout the space. The varying opacity of the fabric impacts how shadows are cast, tying into the exploration of the hierarchy of shadows within the design. This careful selection ensures that each room has its own character, defined by the way light flows through it. The result is a carefully crafted environment where shadows and light play an integral role in shaping day-to-day experiences.

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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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