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Light-Filled Home with Concrete Structure and Seamless Natural Integration

Authors:
Irina Melinte, andra urzica, liana gavrila
Light-Filled Home with Concrete Structure and Seamless Natural Integration

Project in-detail

A concrete structure harmoniously integrates transparent glass and natural wood elements to create a light-filled dwelling that fosters a strong connection with its coastal surroundings, serving as a serene residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
A cantilevered roof design enhances structural stability while maximizing outdoor views.
02
Large glass panels are strategically placed to optimize natural light and ventilation.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both aesthetic warmth and sustainable materiality.
04
The integration of charred wooden shingles offers enhanced durability and fire resistance.
05
An open-plan layout promotes seamless movement and interaction between living spaces.
The Ponta Garça House is an architectural design project situated on São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal. This dwelling integrates seamlessly with its coastal surroundings, emphasizing a strong relationship between the built environment and nature. The primary rationale behind its design is to create a living space that reflects the natural beauty of the landscape while offering a functional, comfortable home.

The architecture of the Ponta Garça House presents an open floor plan that encourages fluid movement between spaces. Key areas within the house include a spacious living area, an inviting dining space, and private quarters designed for relaxation. Large glass panels facilitate natural light and provide panoramic views of the rugged coastline, further enhancing the connection to the outdoor environment.

Unique to the Ponta Garça House is its design approach focused on manipulating light and shadow. This not only creates an atmospheric experience within the home but also promotes energy efficiency through the strategic placement of windows and overhangs. The sloping roof serves a dual purpose; it protects the dwelling from strong coastal winds while also allowing sunlight to permeate the interior spaces. This interaction of light and structure highlights the adaptability of the design in response to the specific geographical context.

Materiality is another vital component of the Ponta Garça House. Concrete provides durability and a modern aesthetic, while glass elements bring transparency and openness. The use of steel in the framework adds structural integrity, and wood is incorporated to soften the overall appearance, creating a balance between modernity and warmth.

The Ponta Garça House exemplifies a thoughtful design approach that emphasizes environmental integration and user comfort. The project's unique architectural elements, including its fluid spatial organization, the focus on light manipulation, and the careful selection of materials, distinguish it from other contemporary residences.

For further insights, we encourage exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate the detailed workings of this project. By examining these elements, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the functionality and aesthetic decisions that underpin the Ponta Garça House.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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