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Illuminated Micro-Living Spaces with Glass Facades and Plywood Interiors

Author:
He Xiansen
Illuminated Micro-Living Spaces with Glass Facades and Plywood Interiors

Project in-detail

With a striking glass facade and warm plywood interiors, this micro-living space redefines urban dwelling by prioritizing natural light and sustainability while fostering community engagement in an increasingly dense environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates extensive glass panels to enhance natural lighting and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
02
Utilizes plywood for interior finishes, promoting warmth while maximizing space functionality.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural integrity while offering distinct aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates solar panels into the roofing system, emphasizing energy efficiency and sustainability.
05
Encourages community interaction through shared spaces that foster social engagement among residents.
The Gap Lamp architectural project, situated on Enning Road in Guangzhou, China, represents a thoughtful response to the pressing issues of urban density and the need for innovative housing solutions. This project aims not only to provide micro-living spaces but also to inject vitality into an underutilized part of the city. The design encapsulates the idea of illumination, both through physical light and the metaphorical enhancement of urban life, establishing a welcoming environment that invites interaction and community engagement.

The architectural design prioritizes natural light, employing extensive glass elements throughout the facade. This choice allows sunlight to penetrate deeper into the interior spaces, creating an airy and open ambiance that contrasts with the often compact nature of urban dwellings. The design's keen focus on illumination emphasizes the importance of light in enhancing residents' well-being and promoting social interaction.

Functionally, the Gap Lamp project incorporates a flexible layout that adapts to various needs. It features three distinct levels, each crafted with a strategic organization of space that promotes both privacy and communal living. The basement serves as a functional utility area, while the upper levels are dedicated to living spaces. The careful arrangement ensures that every square meter is utilized effectively, responding to the demands of modern urban life where space can be a constraint. The interior rooms are designed for multi-functionality, allowing them to serve as bedrooms, workspaces, and dining areas, thereby accommodating the diverse lifestyles of potential residents.

One of the standout aspects of this architectural design is its use of materials. The project incorporates a mix of plywood, steel frames, concrete blocks, and glass, each chosen for its suitability to the project’s context and its role in achieving the desired aesthetic. Plywood not only provides warmth and texture but also helps create a connection to natural elements. In contrast, the steel frames contribute to the structural integrity of the building, allowing for expansive openings and an overall sense of openness. Concrete blocks serve as the foundation, offering durability, while glass fosters transparency and visual continuity between the interior and exterior environments.

Sustainability is a key theme within the Gap Lamp design. Solar panels are integrated into the roofing structure, underscoring the project's commitment to energy efficiency and responsible urban development. The incorporation of sustainable practices demonstrates a growing awareness of environmental issues and the necessity for architecture to adapt to climate change.

The unique design approach of the Gap Lamp project lies in its blend of form and function. By utilizing standard materials in innovative ways and emphasizing light and space, the design team has crafted a dwelling that not only meets the functional requirements of micro-living but also enriches the urban landscape. The project does not merely aim to offer shelter; it seeks to create a nurturing environment that encourages connections among residents and with the surrounding community.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas, plans, and sections of this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the presentation of the Gap Lamp project further. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of its design philosophy, spatial arrangements, and material choices, revealing how thoughtful architectural design can effectively address the complexities of contemporary urban living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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