Get inspired!

17,072 architecture projects

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

Glass Walls and Slope Roof Define A Compact Retreat Crafted with Local Materials

Author:
Monica Del Razo
Glass Walls and Slope Roof Define A Compact Retreat Crafted with Local Materials

Project in-detail

Defined by its sloped roof and extensive glass walls, this microhome integrates local materials to create a compact retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes extensive glass walls to enhance natural light and provide unobstructed views of the lagoon.
02
Features a sloped roof that integrates traditional Mexican architectural elements with a modern aesthetic.
03
Incorporates modular furniture design to maximize functionality within a compact footprint.
04
Constructed with locally sourced materials, including cross-laminated timber and charred wood for durability.
05
Designed as a microhome, promoting sustainable living through reduced space and resource efficiency.
Atlanga's House Microhome is an architectural project situated in Tlaxcala, Mexico, near Laguna de Atlangatepec. This microhome occupies a compact footprint of 25 square meters, designed specifically for young couples seeking a tranquil retreat. The architectural design strategically integrates the built environment with the natural setting, aiming to respond to the contemporary demand for sustainable and efficient living spaces.

Innovative Spatial Organization
The design of Atlanga’s House emphasizes functional spatial organization through thoughtful arrangement of interior elements. The residence consists of distinct areas including a modular kitchen, a multifunctional living space, and a cozy sleeping area. Each space is meticulously crafted to serve multiple purposes, promoting efficient use of area while ensuring comfort and accessibility. The modular elements, such as the sofa bed and hidden storage within the kitchen, accentuate versatility, making it well-suited for compact living.

Connection to Nature
A prominent feature of the project is its extensive use of glass walls, which optimize views of the lagoon and flood the interior with natural light. This design approach enhances the connection to the external environment, allowing for significant visual integration with the picturesque landscape. The structure’s sloped roof also pays homage to traditional Mexican architectural forms, while the modern execution maintains an emphasis on clean lines and minimalism. This duality reflects a sensitivity to the site’s cultural context, differentiating Atlanga’s House from typical microhome designs.

Material Selection and Sustainability
Sustainability is a key theme in the construction of Atlanga’s House. The project predominantly utilizes concrete for its structural elements, ensuring durability and weather resistance. The incorporation of wood and granite further enriches the aesthetic quality while providing a tactile contrast to the concrete. Each chosen material not only serves a functional purpose but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the project. This material palette, combined with energy-efficient design practices, supports the intent to create an environmentally responsible dwelling.

In summary, Atlanga's House Microhome exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture that prioritizes functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. For a more comprehensive understanding, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of this project to gain deeper insights into its unique architectural ideas and conceptual framework.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 17,072 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