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Floating Workshop Spaces with Ecological Considerations

Authors:
Giulia Cova, Ilaria Casula, Luca Capriccioni
Floating Workshop Spaces with Ecological Considerations
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Openings in the roof provide habitat for a local bat species while a floating workshop area enhances the connection to the lake, creating a unique environment for artists to work and collaborate.
5 key facts about this project
01
Openings in the roof accommodate a local bat species.
02
A floating workshop provides direct access to the lake.
03
Mirrored double bedrooms enhance privacy and functionality.
04
A panoramic corridor connects living and sleeping areas.
05
Natural light maximized through large windows for views.

The design presents a residential house located near a calm lake, crafted to encourage creativity and artistic expression. This setting offers expansive views of the water from nearly every room. The connection to nature is central to the overall design, which balances functionality for its artistic residents with a strong integration into the landscape.

Design Concept

The entrance is thoughtfully placed to the south, creating a moment of surprise. Upon entering, visitors are revealed the scenic view of the lake, enhancing the experience of approaching the house. This design choice encourages a deeper connection between the occupants and the surrounding environment, inviting exploration.

Functional Layout

The house features a two-story layout that combines living, sleeping, and workshop spaces effectively. A panoramic corridor leads into the sleeping areas, which consist of two mirrored double bedrooms. These rooms are separated by two bathrooms accessible only from within. The main living area includes a large northeast-facing window, providing natural light and beautiful views of the lake. The kitchen is designed to facilitate social interaction and is complemented by a separate office that overlooks the workshop.

Workshop and Laboratory Spaces

A significant aspect of the design is the dedicated workshop and laboratory area. This space is equipped with various tools to support artistic endeavors. A pathway connects the workshop to floating platforms on the lake, allowing for direct engagement with nature. This design fosters collaboration among artists, reinforcing the identity of the residence as a space for creative work.

Ecological Considerations

Attention to local ecology is another important feature. Openings in the roof accommodate a rare species of bats that inhabit the area. This consideration underscores a commitment to environmental care, allowing the residence to coexist with local wildlife.

The internal layout maximizes natural light and views, with staircases providing access to the first floor for additional sightlines of the lake. The design encourages a close relationship between living spaces and the landscape, creating an environment that inspires creativity and artistic expression.

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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.

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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

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