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Intersecting Volumes with Terraced Privacy and Optimized Views

Author:
Aprielle Chung
Intersecting Volumes with Terraced Privacy and Optimized Views

Project in-detail

Intersecting volumes create distinct private terraces that provide optimal views and environmental protection for two families sharing a residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Intersecting volumes enhance spatial experience and circulation for two families.
02
Private terraces ensure individual outdoor spaces while maintaining privacy.
03
Windows are strategically recessed to minimize winter wind exposure.
04
Existing foundations were retained, promoting sustainability and context sensitivity.
05
Terraced layouts create sheltered outdoor areas usable in varied weather.

The Mobius House is designed to accommodate two families in a way that emphasizes privacy while encouraging communal interactions. It is situated in an environment that enhances its overall design concept, which is based on the idea of a Mobius loop. This concept symbolizes connection and continuity, and it is reflected in the layout and circulation pathways that serve both family units.

Design Concept

The structure is oriented along a northwest longitudinal axis, providing resistance against winter winds. The living areas face the southern front yard, allowing for ample natural light. This orientation respects the original layout of the previous building and integrates new elements with the existing context, creating a cohesive design.

Spatial Configuration

Each family has distinct private and outdoor spaces. The terraces do not overlook one another, ensuring that both families enjoy their own secluded areas. Despite these separations, there is shared yard space that invites both families to engage in communal activities. This thoughtful design balances the need for individual privacy with opportunities for interaction.

Environmental Considerations

The project pays attention to environmental factors, with windows strategically placed to enhance views while minimizing exposure to harsh winds. The orientation of the windows offers comfort indoors by providing natural light without cold drafts. Cantilevered sections help protect the living spaces from the elements, making them inviting throughout the year.

Terraces positioned between the volumes create sheltered outdoor areas that can be used even in less favorable weather. This feature highlights the design’s adaptability to various climate conditions while fostering connections between the families and their environment. Each detail contributes to a living experience that is both practical and engaging.

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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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