Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Hollow Brick and Recycled Concrete Structure Integrating Community Engagement in a Scenic Rural Setting

Author:
Wei ting Yu
Hollow Brick and Recycled Concrete Structure Integrating Community Engagement in a Scenic Rural Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with hollow brick and recycled concrete, the design merges sustainable materials with a focus on community engagement, creating a multifunctional space dedicated to promoting local olive oil tourism.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a focus on community engagement through shared kitchen and dining spaces.
02
Incorporates local materials such as hollow brick and recycled concrete for sustainability.
03
Features a meditation terrace that blends natural elements with architectural design.
04
Strategically uses solar panels on the southern roof slope to enhance energy efficiency.
05
Showroom area dedicated to promoting local olive oil and tourism initiatives.

### Overview
Located in the regions of Leiria and Batalha, Portugal, this architectural design addresses the intersection of urban and rural environments while considering contemporary challenges such as an aging population and climate change. The intent is to create a functional space that fosters community engagement and enhances environmental resilience, with a particular emphasis on the local olive oil industry.

### Material and Structural Strategy
The design incorporates materials that are both sustainable and reflective of the local culture. Key elements include hollow brick for enhanced thermal insulation, stainless steel for structural durability, locally sourced timber for aesthetic warmth, and recycled concrete for environmentally responsible construction practices. Additionally, wall paint derived from waste materials and solar panels on the southern roof slope contribute to energy efficiency. This thoughtful selection of materials bridges historical architectural practices and modern innovations.

### Spatial Organization and Community Focus
The spatial configuration is strategically crafted to promote communal interaction while ensuring user privacy. Key functional areas include an accessible forecourt for visitor welcome, a porch that fosters exterior engagement, a showroom dedicated to local olive oil education, and a shared kitchen and dining area that strengthens community bonds. The design also features a mixed-use terrace for relaxation and social interaction, integrating natural elements with built spaces. This versatility supports a range of activities, from social gatherings to educational initiatives surrounding local agriculture, ultimately enhancing community resilience and social cohesion.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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