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Fish Scale Modular Panels and Natural Lighting Create a Coastal Beacon for Community Living

Authors:
Lee Minjae , Eunsik Kim, Hoongoo Kang
Fish Scale Modular Panels and Natural Lighting Create a Coastal Beacon for Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing fish scale modular panels and large reflective surfaces, the structure integrates sustainable materials to Create a community-focused living space on the rocky coastline.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a unique fish scale modular panel system for enhanced light and privacy.
02
Incorporates locally sourced materials to minimize ecological impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation.
04
Integrates community pathways connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Maximizes ocean views with strategically placed large windows.

### Overview

The Lighthouse of Fish is situated along a rocky southwestern coastline facing the West Sea. The project draws inspiration from the local fishermen's cultural ties to the ocean, reflecting themes central to their lifestyle. Its design serves both functional and narrative purposes, providing a space that embodies the relationship between human habitation and the natural environment.

### Spatial Arrangement and User Experience

The architectural layout emphasizes connectivity between indoor and outdoor areas, facilitating interaction and movement among inhabitants. An open-plan living area promotes social engagement and mirrors the communal aspects of fishing. Large, strategically placed windows frame views of the ocean, enhancing the residents' connection to their surroundings and allowing for the ongoing observation of maritime conditions. Outdoor pathways guide residents and visitors towards the shoreline, reinforcing the integration of the structure with the coastal landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices are integral to the building’s aesthetic and functional success. Predominantly constructed of wood, the structure reflects local traditions and provides warmth. Expansive glass windows offer transparency and connect the interior with the exterior environment, while durable metal roofing ensures resilience against coastal weather. The project also features modular panels that serve multiple purposes: they enhance natural light, provide shading and privacy, and adapt to varying environmental conditions, promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. Local flora is incorporated into the landscape design to minimize maintenance and further establish a connection to the local ecology.

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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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