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Korean Timber Structure Integrates Smart Farms and Natural Ventilation

Author:
Donghwa Shon
Korean Timber Structure Integrates Smart Farms and Natural Ventilation

Project in-detail

Employing Glue Laminated Timber and smart farming systems, the design enhances natural ventilation while creating a multifunctional space that fosters community engagement in Sejong City.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glue Laminated Timber is used for structural strength and flexibility.
02
Smart farms are integrated to promote urban agriculture within the building.
03
Natural ventilation is enhanced through the application of the Venturi effect.
04
The design prioritizes pedestrian accessibility and connects with surrounding green spaces.
05
Community-focused programs are incorporated within the multifunctional layout.

The design is situated in Sejong City, Republic of Korea, where it aims to create a connection between urban life and nature. It focuses on building a tall structure that serves multiple functions while promoting sustainability and community engagement. The project combines eco-friendly practices with innovative design, demonstrating a commitment to both the environment and the people who will inhabit the space.

Materiality and Structural Integrity

Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) is used in the construction, providing both strength and flexibility to the building. This choice reflects a connection to traditional Korean timber methods, which prioritize durability while minimizing the use of iron components. The appearance of wood is visually appealing and aligns with the project’s aim to offer a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Integration of Natural Elements

The layout encourages foot traffic and incorporates natural features that help define different areas. This design choice enhances accessibility and creates a visually appealing journey through the site. Smart farms are integrated into the structure, allowing for urban agriculture that not only supports food production but also encourages social interaction among residents.

Ventilation and Energy Efficiency

Natural ventilation is achieved through the use of the Venturi effect, which improves airflow within the building, particularly in the atrium. This method promotes better air quality and helps lower energy use. The design relies on these passive systems rather than mechanical solutions, aligning with its sustainability goals while providing a comfortable environment.

Community-Centric Programs

The space includes a mix of commercial areas, residential units, and facilities that foster community interaction, such as urban agricultural offices and cultural spaces. The arrangement of these programs aims to encourage social connections and serves the diverse needs of the community, resulting in a lively and functional building.



The atrium serves as a central feature, facilitating the flow of air while becoming a focal point for visitors. It enhances the overall experience by blending indoor and outdoor environments, reflecting the project's commitment to sustainability and community well-being.

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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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