Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Kinetic Living Spaces Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber and Precast Concrete

Authors:
Amr Waly, Ewelina Gawell, Aleksandra Stępniewska, Maryia Yanchuk
Kinetic Living Spaces Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber and Precast Concrete

Project in-detail

Utilizing dynamic rotation and cross-laminated timber, this innovative residential design fosters interaction and adaptability within its community-oriented structure, ensuring a harmonious balance between private spaces and social living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates rotating bedroom modules that allow occupants to adjust their views and ambient light.
02
Cross-laminated timber is used in combination with precast concrete elements for enhanced stability and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinct aesthetic while improving weather resistance and longevity.
04
The structure promotes a communal living experience through its central core designed for social interaction.
05
Large glass panels facilitate seamless indoor-outdoor connections, enhancing natural light throughout the living spaces.
The Modular Pinball House represents a thoughtful exploration into the realm of contemporary architecture by addressing the complexities of modern living through an innovative, modular design. This project embodies a response to the evolving needs of urban residents, balancing private and communal living while maintaining a playful architectural character, inspired by the movement and interaction found in pinball games. Each module in this design functions independently while also serving a collective purpose, fostering a sense of community among its inhabitants.

At its core, the Modular Pinball House consists of a versatile arrangement of three main modules: the core public space, designated for communal activities; and two bedroom modules that provide private living areas. This thoughtful segmentation allows for a diverse residential experience, accommodating various lifestyle requirements while promoting interaction among residents. The public core serves as a central hub, encouraging inhabitants to gather, while the private modules are designed to ensure comfort and intimacy.

A key feature of this project is its unique modular approach. Each bedroom module is capable of rotating up to 180 degrees, allowing residents to customize their views and orientation according to personal preferences or environmental conditions such as sunlight and wind direction. This dynamic element is characteristic of the design, emphasizing adaptability and fluidity in residential architecture. By enabling rotation, the design not only enhances the spatial experience within the home but also maximizes the connection to the external environment, inviting in natural light and ensuring optimal ventilation.

The materiality of the Modular Pinball House is carefully selected to balance durability with sustainability. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) form the primary structural framework, offering a lightweight yet robust platform that supports the various internal configurations. Precast concrete components are introduced to provide stability while complementing the timber's aesthetic warmth. Steel connections are employed to unify the structural integrity of the various modules, contributing to the overall cohesiveness of the design. The extensive use of large glass panels allows for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere while fostering broader connections within the community.

One of the standout aspects of the Modular Pinball House is the integration of outdoor spaces alongside the introduction of private balconies and terraces made possible by the rotating modules. This feature enhances the living experience, providing each resident with personal outdoor areas for relaxation and socializing, ultimately enriching the quality of life within the development. By positioning these outdoor spaces strategically, the design encourages interaction amongst occupants while still respecting essential privacy.

The layout of the project reflects a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The smooth curves and diverse shapes of the modules create a visually engaging profile that enhances the architectural experience. Leveraging a minimalist yet playful aesthetic, the design straddles the line between modernity and familiarity, making it suitable for various urban settings. This adaptability facilitates its integration into distinct geographical contexts, as the design can be adjusted to respond to specific environmental and cultural characteristics.

Incorporating innovative vertical circulation, the design facilitates easy movement within the structure. The core public module includes thoughtfully designed staircases that enhance accessibility while promoting fluid transitions between levels. This approach recognizes the importance of connectivity in residential environments and actively contributes to a sense of cohesion among the various living units.

The Modular Pinball House exemplifies how architecture can evolve to meet modern needs while incorporating elements of playfulness and flexibility. It showcases a unique approach to residential living that prioritizes sustainability, interaction, and personalization. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and ideas behind this project, exploring additional details will offer a fuller understanding of the innovative concepts that drive its design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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