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Geometric Patterns and Metal Cladding Define Private Living Spaces in a Communal Courtyard House

Author:
Dilber Ugur
Geometric Patterns and Metal Cladding Define Private Living Spaces in a Communal Courtyard House

Project in-detail

Emphasizing geometric patterns and a metal-clad facade, the design integrates a central courtyard that facilitates both privacy and communal living in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates intricate geometric patterns that provide both aesthetics and privacy.
02
A central open-air courtyard serves as a communal hub, enhancing social interaction while maintaining privacy.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
04
Charred wooden shingles create a unique texture and reduce maintenance needs.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light and airflow throughout the living spaces.

**Overview**
Located at the intersection of contemporary living and cultural introspection, the architectural design addresses the theme of privacy through the lens of Islamic and Eastern cultural values. By exploring the tension between individual freedom and social integration, the project proposes a residential layout that prioritizes both personal autonomy and community interaction. The central concept advocates for a redefinition of privacy, promoting it as a communal asset that enhances social wellbeing.

**Spatial Strategy and Layout**
The architectural layout is centered around an open-air courtyard, designed to act as a focal point for both private and communal activities. This central feature facilitates interaction among residents while providing an opportunity to retreat into personal spaces. The organization of the floor plans reflects a strategic balance: the first and second levels are arranged to allow visibility and accessibility to communal areas, with living rooms and kitchens oriented towards the courtyard. Notable design elements such as the integration of a "play room" and dedicated guest quarters underscore the blending of private and social environments, supported by the inclusion of expansive windows that enhance natural light and psychological comfort.

**Materiality and Architectural Features**
The facade features geometric patterns that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, illustrating the project's commitment to privacy. This patterned cladding utilizes light and shadow to delineate private spaces, such as bedrooms and guest rooms, while contributing to the building's visual identity. The choice of materials, likely including concrete for structural integrity, glass for transparency and light, and metalwork for detailed patterns, reflects a dual emphasis on durability and cultural resonance. This careful selection fosters a cohesive relationship between the interior and exterior, reinforcing the project's overall intent of enhancing individual freedom within a communal setting.

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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

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