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Framing Nature with Glazed Clay and Glass Veils

Author:
Jeff Jang
Framing Nature with Glazed Clay and Glass Veils

Project in-detail

Glazed clay and layered glass envelop a building that skillfully frames panoramic views of rolling hills, creating an immersive communal space designed for engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glazed clay panels provide thermal insulation while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
The building's veil extends views, creating dynamic perspectives of the landscape.
03
Clear, etched, and frosted glass types offer varying transparency and texture.
04
The design features a communal platform to foster collective experiences.
05
Strategically framed sunsets are a core element of the visitor experience.

Located in an area filled with natural beauty, the design offers a refreshing experience of the landscape through its unique approach. The function of the building revolves around connecting people with nature, creating a space where every visitor can engage with the environment. By treating the architectural form like a cinema, the design frames views of the lush surroundings, inviting users to immerse themselves in the changing scenery.

Design Framework

The structure consists of a platform, a wall, and a veil that combine to create a fluid transition between the inside and outside. This arrangement encourages interaction with the landscape. It invites visitors to explore and enjoy the views. Relationships between various spaces are carefully considered, enhancing the communal atmosphere while allowing for personal reflection.

Spatial Engagement

The exterior veil is crucial in shaping the visual experience. It extends the horizon, abstracts natural elements, and frames key vistas, such as the distant hills and captivating sunsets. By shifting perspectives, the design fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding it. As visitors move through the space, they experience gradual changes in light and scenery, which further enriches their connection to the environment.

Material Expression

The use of materials such as glazed clay, clear glass, etched glass, frosted glass, and chrome plays an important role in the project. These choices reflect a respect for local building traditions while integrating modern components. The varying types of glass allow natural light to filter in, blending the interior and exterior. This interaction with materials enhances tactile experiences and links people to the world outside.

Through thoughtful design and careful material choices, the building creates an environment where nature can be experienced in new and interesting ways. Light, texture, and form come together, providing a rich setting that captures the essence of the landscape. Visitors find themselves in a space that encourages exploration and appreciation of nature.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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