Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Jute-Clad Retreat Embracing Serenity with Glass-Laden Spaces

Authors:
Mattia Fornari, Luca Tagliaferri
Jute-Clad Retreat Embracing Serenity with Glass-Laden Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with jute and glass, the design harmonizes a grid-based layout to create a tranquil living space that emphasizes meditation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a grid system of 70x70 cm modules.
02
Incorporates sustainable materials like jute and glass.
03
Features dedicated meditation areas integrated with living spaces.
04
Emphasizes visual transparency to enhance natural light flow.
05
Designed to foster a strong connection with the surrounding environment.

The SIDEXSIDE project is a modular design that uses the square as its main shape. Located in a peaceful environment, it aims to create a compact living space focused on calm and reflection. Through a grid system that organizes its layout, the design efficiently balances functional areas with meditative spaces. This approach reflects a modern interpretation of minimal living.

Architecture Concept

The concept behind SIDEXSIDE emphasizes efficiency and simplicity. A grid of 70x70 cm governs the structure, allowing for a well-organized composition that makes the most of available space. Each area serves a specific function while contributing to the overall tranquility of the living environment. By thoughtfully integrating service zones with areas intended for meditation, the design considers how people will use the spaces throughout their daily lives.

Materials and Sustainability

The materials chosen for SIDEXSIDE are selected to support its goals for functionality and aesthetics. Glass panels enhance natural light while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. Jute is used for its ecological benefits, aligning with the design's commitment to sustainability. Wood insulation provides comfort and helps regulate temperature, preserving the character of the cabin while ensuring a pleasant living experience.

Spatial Experiences

The design prioritizes openness and light, using strategically placed windows to create a bright interior. This choice fosters a connection to the outside, encouraging residents to engage with the surrounding landscape. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces allows for both privacy and community, underscoring the importance of balance in modern living.

A meditation area is intentionally included alongside living spaces, ensuring that each element has a specific purpose while contributing to the character of the overall design. The composition reflects careful planning, highlighting the significance of both practicality and contemplation in contemporary life.

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