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Interconnected Squares Embracing Local Materials and Nature

Authors:
Myriam De mesa amores, Pol Fernández fernández
Interconnected Squares Embracing Local Materials and Nature

Project in-detail

Rooted in the landscape, three interconnected squares utilize local materials to foster community interaction and provide versatile spaces for hospitality and creative work.
5 key facts about this project
01
Three interconnected squares designed to enhance community interaction.
02
Adaptable modules allow flexible use according to seasonal population changes.
03
Strategic positioning optimizes solar energy collection for thermal comfort.
04
Local materials reflect regional aesthetics and foster environmental integration.
05
Dedicated spaces for art and workshops promote creative engagement.

LACUNAS offers an insightful exploration of how empty spaces can be transformed into functional areas. Located in a landscape that combines both natural and built elements, the design creates interconnected squares for community and individual use. The name "LACUNAS" comes from a Latin word meaning "blank spaces," highlighting the project's foundation in utilizing these voids effectively. Each square has its own unique shape and purpose, encouraging social interactions while blending into the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

The core idea of LACUNAS revolves around using open spaces creatively. The design features three chained squares that not only connect but also serve different purposes. This arrangement supports various activities, improving community engagement. The layout is carefully designed to make the most of the site’s topography and orientation, ensuring effective solar energy capture. This attention to positioning is especially important for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures in the colder months.

Functional Zoning

On the ground floor, there is a mix of uses that include hotel rooms, community spaces, a yoga center, workshops, co-working areas, and exhibition spaces. This variety allows the design to accommodate different needs, supporting both solo and communal activities. The first floor expands these offerings with more hotel room options, hostal accommodations, and duplexes designed for artists, further enriching the range of spaces available for living and working.

Contextual Integration

LACUNAS aims to connect with the local architecture and landscape in a meaningful way. While specific materials are not mentioned, the choices made will reflect the regional aesthetic, contributing to a sense of place. This alignment with local design principles enhances the overall experience and emphasizes continuity with the existing built environment. Additionally, its strategic location not only in La Coma but also near La Puebla de Fantova strengthens ties to the surrounding community.

The design encourages exploration and interaction, featuring spaces that facilitate connections among users. Each area thoughtfully invites individuals to engage with the environment and with one another. It creates an experience where private and public realms can coexist harmoniously, allowing nature and community life to come together.

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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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