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Interactivity and Ambiance in Inhabited Urban Spaces

Authors:
Farah Rehman, Amy He
Interactivity and Ambiance in Inhabited Urban Spaces
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Defined by its emphasis on interactivity and light, the design integrates personal space within an urban setting, enhancing the living experience through thoughtful architectural elements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Distinctive bent A-frame design enhances spatial dynamics.
02
Integration of personal zones within the urban context fosters community.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles adds to the building's aesthetic while enhancing durability.
04
Strategic placement of windows maximizes natural light throughout the interior.
05
Flexible layout adapts to diverse living arrangements and user needs.

The architectural design explores urban living within a densely populated environment. The overall concept creates an engaging dialogue between public life and personal space. It emphasizes how design can respond to the needs of its users, providing both functionality and a sense of belonging in an urban context.

Conceptual Framework

The design framework centers on important themes that define the project. The term “City” illustrates the complexity of urban environments. It speaks to the necessity for buildings that address the vibrancy and challenges of city life. By focusing on urban experiences, the architecture engages with how people move and interact within the community.

Personal Space

The concept of “Closet” highlights the significance of personal space in urban settings. This term means more than just storage; it represents a need for privacy and sanctuary amidst the busy atmosphere of city life. This duality reinforces the balance between individual comfort and shared experiences among residents.

Ambience and Atmosphere

The reference to “Candle” emphasizes the role of light in shaping the atmosphere within spaces. Thoughtful use of natural and artificial light can create inviting environments. This focus on ambiance showcases a commitment to enhance the daily lives of those who occupy these areas, connecting architecture with the sensory experiences of living.

Functional Design

The term “Instrument” suggests that every element in the design has a clear purpose. Each aspect is carefully planned to serve practical needs, blending beauty with functionality. This focus ensures that spaces are adaptable and meaningful for users, supporting a design approach that prioritizes comfort and usability.

Natural light filters through the carefully designed spaces, casting soft shadows that change throughout the day. This interplay between light and architecture creates a calming environment, inviting people to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

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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

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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