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Glazing and Steel Framing Harmonize with Natural Landscape

Authors:
Cassidy Ho, Tony Le, Dana Kim
Glazing and Steel Framing Harmonize with Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Combining extensive glazing and steel framing, the design responds effectively to the natural contours of the landscape while providing defined spaces for rest, work, and living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extensive glazing provides panoramic views while enhancing natural light.
02
The design incorporates steel framing for structural stability and open layouts.
03
Photovoltaic panels support energy efficiency within the living spaces.
04
Wood features include flooring and paneling for warmth and texture.
05
Shoji doors allow flexible spatial arrangements, maximizing usability.

The design features a well-organized arrangement of spaces that serve specific functions for rest, work, and living. Set within a diverse landscape, the layout responds to the surroundings while prioritizing the needs of its residents. The approach focuses on clarity in functionality and flexibility in the use of space, allowing different activities to flow naturally into one another. Each area is tailored to support daily living, enhancing comfort and convenience.

Spatial Organization

Distinct zones are created for various activities in the home. Within the layout, essential items like storage, a washing machine, countertops, and bookshelves are thoughtfully integrated. This arrangement highlights a focus on efficient space use while ensuring everything has its place. Each element is positioned to meet everyday needs, contributing to a practical living environment.

Material Selection

Materials are selected with care, significantly impacting the overall feel of the design. Glazing is used to invite natural light, providing expansive views of the landscape outside. Photovoltaic panels are part of the strategy for energy efficiency, harnessing renewable resources. The use of wood in flooring and paneling adds warmth and visual interest, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Shoji doors are employed for their space-saving qualities, allowing for flexible arrangements that accommodate changing needs.

Structural Integration

Steel framing forms the core of the structure, providing the stability needed for open layouts. LED strips are included for lighting, making the spaces feel bright and inviting while promoting energy conservation. The combination of a sturdy framework and thoughtful lighting ensures both functionality and visual appeal.

Contextual Relationship

There is a strong connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. The design acknowledges the natural contours of the site, allowing the structure to blend with its environment. This relationship strengthens the bond between indoor and outdoor spaces, giving residents the chance to appreciate the scenery from inside. Large windows frame views of the outside, inviting the landscape into everyday life, enhancing the lived experience within the home.

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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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