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Glowing Greenery with Sliding Petals in a Multifunctional Urban Space

Authors:
Alexander Chizhik, Sofia Ivanova, Arina Garbunovich
Glowing Greenery with Sliding Petals in a Multifunctional Urban Space

Project in-detail

Emphasizing bioluminescence through glowing greenery and dynamic sliding petals, the design creates a versatile urban space that adapts to the rhythms of day and night.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each sliding petal adjusts to natural light, enhancing privacy and interior illumination.
02
Bioluminescent plants are integrated for nighttime lighting, reducing reliance on artificial sources.
03
Private green corridors provide a direct connection to nature within the urban setting.
04
Public gathering points are designed with glowing greenery, fostering community interaction.
05
Sun tunnels channel daylight into deeper areas, creating bright, inviting interiors.

The architectural design titled "NOCTURNAL" takes inspiration from night-blooming plants, specifically *Nicotiana suaveolens*. Located in an urban area, it aims to create a multifunctional space that highlights the relationship between light and nature. The design concept revolves around the idea of transforming traditional illumination through the incorporation of elements that mimic living organisms, allowing the building to serve both as a shelter and a dynamic light source.

Sliding Petals

A standout feature of this design is the sliding petals that make up the building's façade. These petals are designed to respond to the changing conditions of the day and night. By opening and closing, they help control the amount of natural light that enters the interior and provide varying levels of privacy. This adaptive aspect not only enhances the building's appearance but also allows for a flexible living environment that can adjust based on its surroundings.



Sun Tunnels and Skylights

Sun tunnels and skylights are key components of the design strategy. Positioned thoughtfully throughout the structure, these elements maximize daylight while reducing the need for artificial lighting. The sun tunnels channel light into the deeper areas of the building, creating bright spaces that feel open and inviting. Skylights provide direct illumination, enhancing the overall atmosphere. This careful consideration of light offers a more energy-efficient building and enriches the quality of life within the space.



Private Green Corridors

The design includes private green corridors that encourage a connection to nature. These pathways weave through the building and ensure that occupants have access to peaceful areas for quiet reflection. The green corridors contribute to the overall ecological approach of the project, merging the natural landscape with built spaces. This integration promotes well-being and adds to the tranquil feel of the environment, creating a restorative atmosphere for users.



Public Gathering Points

The project incorporates public gathering points that promote social interaction among residents and visitors. These spaces are designed to be inviting and encourage community engagement. At night, the illuminated greenery brings warmth to the surroundings, creating a lively atmosphere. The layout encourages people to come together and enjoy the natural beauty present within the urban fabric, enhancing the sense of community in the area.



As darkness descends, the building’s features come to life, casting a warm glow throughout the space. This gentle illumination invites people to explore the harmonious blend of nature and architecture, highlighting the project as a place where light and life coexist amid an urban landscape.

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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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