Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Galvanized Roof and Concrete Base in a Lakeside Community Retreat

Authors:
Silvia Batini, Marco Cappelletti
Galvanized Roof and Concrete Base in a Lakeside Community Retreat

Project in-detail

A large galvanized metal roof provides shelter for a community-focused retreat that harmonizes with its lakeside environment through a concrete base, wooden structures, and thoughtful integration of shared and private spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
A bat-friendly roof design accommodates local wildlife while providing shelter.
02
The interior includes exposed beams, enhancing the creative atmosphere in the workshop.
03
Common areas feature large windows that frame scenic lake views, fostering connection to nature.
04
The concrete base protects the wooden structure from moisture, following traditional building practices.
05
Flexible partitioning allows adaptability in the painter's workshop to suit various activities.

The project is situated in a peaceful lakeside area, embodying a strong connection to its natural landscape. The design concept is rooted in traditional building practices, focusing on communal living while providing spaces for individual privacy. There are two main structures: a smaller barn and a larger building that combines residential units, common areas, and a workshop, promoting interaction among residents.

Design Intent

The layout facilitates social engagement among inhabitants. Entering the main building, one finds a communal area that connects the two residential units, the workshop, and a patio with views of the lake. This arrangement encourages movement throughout the space while maintaining distinct private areas.

Spatial Arrangement

The residential units, located on the ground floor, are designed for both separation and connection. Common areas serve as transitional zones, balancing privacy with opportunities for social interaction. They act as links, visually and physically connecting private spaces with public functions, contributing to a sense of community.

Workshop Environment

The painter's workshop occupies the first floor, designed as an open space with a trussed ceiling and exposed beams. This environment supports creativity, with the option to create smaller areas using panels. Large windows fill the room with natural light and establish a visual relationship with the outdoors, while a covered terrace offers views of the lake, enhancing the working experience.

Material Considerations

The project includes a concrete base, protecting the wooden structure from moisture, in line with traditional methods. A large galvanized sheet metal roof characterizes the design, reflecting local building practices while providing strength against weather conditions. These choices contribute to the structure's durability and connection to its heritage.

Design details highlight a strong unity between indoor and outdoor spaces, where expansive windows not only allow abundant light inside but also frame picturesque views of the lake, enriching the living experience for those within.

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