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Fluid Form Enhanced by Natural Light and Concrete Harmony in a Coastal Performance Space

Author:
Yaoyao Yuan
Fluid Form Enhanced by Natural Light and Concrete Harmony in a Coastal Performance Space

Project in-detail

Crafted with a fluid, oval form and built predominantly from concrete and glass, this coastal venue integrates natural light and panoramic views, serving as a dynamic space for cultural performances and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fluid oval form enhances acoustics and audience engagement.
02
Seamless integration of panoramic views with performance space.
03
Use of concrete and glass promotes sustainability and durability.
04
Design emphasizes natural light throughout interior spaces.
05
Community-focused layout encourages interaction among visitors.

### Overview

The Sunlight Theater is located on a coastal landscape, designed as a cultural venue that functions as both a performance space and a public gathering area. The design seeks to foster an interaction between art and the natural environment, aiming to engage visitors in a meaningful dialogue with the surrounding landscape.

### Form and Structural Integrity

The theater features a fluid, undulating form that resembles ocean waves, a design choice that enhances acoustics and visual coherence with the maritime context. This oval shape facilitates significant spanning capacity while maintaining structural stability and aesthetic appeal. The integration of concrete for the façade contributes to the building's durability and smoothness, while transparent glass components create bright interiors and reinforce visual connections with the outdoors. The steel truss system further supports the architectural vision, balancing strength with design flexibility.

### User Engagement and Spatial Configuration

Incorporating a unique seating arrangement, the theater's oval-shaped seats promote inclusivity and emotional connection among attendees. This configuration fosters a communal atmosphere, contrasting with traditional theater layouts. Additionally, a strategically placed viewing platform allows audiences to enjoy panoramic vistas of the horizon, enhancing the overall experience with visual layers that complement the performances. A functional service center is seamlessly integrated into the building's design, providing essential support for events while maintaining the venue's aesthetic integrity.

### Sustainability and Environmental Consideration

The design of Sunlight Theater prioritizes sustainability through minimal ground disturbance and adherence to the natural topography of the site. This approach promotes biodiversity and preserves the site's ecological character, ensuring that the development respects and integrates with its coastal environment.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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