Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Floating Structure Crafted with Natural Materials Embracing Light and Water Integration

Author:
Jing Xu
Floating Structure Crafted with Natural Materials Embracing Light and Water Integration

Project in-detail

Elevated above tranquil waters, the design integrates glass and natural wood to create a harmonious space for meditation and wellness within a serene landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design creates a floating appearance above surrounding waters.
02
Extensive use of glass enhances natural light penetration throughout the spaces.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while blending with the natural landscape.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural efficiency and sustainability.
05
Integrated water features enhance tranquility and interaction with the environment.

## Project Overview

Located in a tranquil natural setting, "The Floating Camp" is a multi-use facility designed for meditation and relaxation. The project emphasizes introspection and aims to create a space that connects individuals with nature, enhancing their experience of peace and serenity. The architectural approach reflects a synthesis of contemporary aesthetics and functionality, with various interconnected areas designed to support diverse activities.

### Spatial Configuration

The design features a comprehensive layout that includes meditation areas, accommodations, dining facilities, private villas, and communal spaces. Each zone is distinctly designated, fostering a harmonious flow and promoting a cohesive atmosphere centered around tranquility. The strategic incorporation of natural elements, such as greenery, water features, and ample natural light, further blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, establishing a calming ambiance throughout the facility.

### Material Selection and Structural Innovation

A diverse range of materials has been thoughtfully selected to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the project. Fired clay bricks create warm, textured walls, while expansive glazing facilitates natural illumination and panoramic views of the surroundings. Wood elements contribute an organic touch, and concrete provides structural integrity. Metal components, potentially steel or aluminum, add a contemporary edge to the overall design.

In addition, the concept of "floating" spaces is a defining feature, both physically elevating the structure and symbolically lifting it above distractions. The use of reflective water bodies enhances this visual effect, creating an atmosphere of lightness. The innovative folding of surfaces generates functional areas beneath while permitting light to permeate, which fosters a meditative ambience. The design also respectfully addresses the contextual relationship between existing structures and new elements, facilitating a dialogue between tradition and modernity within the landscape.

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
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