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Harmonizing Light and Shadow Through Thoughtful Openings

Authors:
Haokun Liu, Yuchen Liu
Harmonizing Light and Shadow Through Thoughtful Openings

Project in-detail

Delicate openings allow moonlight to filter into a tranquil sanctuary, where the careful interplay of light and shadow transforms everyday living into an immersive experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Delicate apertures allow natural light to filter in, enhancing the interior atmosphere.
02
The bent A-frame design creates unique spatial dynamics within the home.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and a striking visual texture.
05
The interplay of light and shadow is a central theme throughout the living spaces.

The Home of Shadows is a contemporary design that emphasizes the relationship between light and shadow, situated in a peaceful setting that promotes reflection and tranquility. This dwelling serves as a retreat, where the experience of light is central to daily life. The concept focuses on harnessing natural illumination to enhance the interior spaces and enrich the overall atmosphere of the home.

Spatial Dynamics

The design features an open layout that encourages movement and interaction among different areas. Each room is carefully positioned to take advantage of natural light, allowing sunlight to fill the interiors throughout the day. The arrangement fosters a connection with the surroundings, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. This layout not only supports the functionality of the spaces but also enhances the everyday experiences of the occupants.

Light and Shadow Play

Light and shadow are key elements in the design. As daylight shifts, shadows move across various surfaces, adding depth to the environment. This ongoing interaction goes beyond mere aesthetics; it influences how people feel inside the home. The design captures this relationship, drawing attention to the quiet moments in life and encouraging introspection and relaxation.

Atmospheric Transformation

As night falls, the house changes under the soft glow of moonlight that comes through intentional openings. This gentle light creates a soothing ambiance, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The apertures are designed to blend the outer world with the inner space, allowing the two to connect. This feature provides an opportunity for inhabitants to step into a serene nighttime environment where nature feels close.

The careful arrangement of the facade, with its thoughtfully placed openings, frames the views of the landscape while controlling light entry. This detail plays a significant role in the design, showing an intention to work harmoniously with the environment. It highlights the architectural goal of creating a space that feels both grounded and connected to the natural world.

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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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