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Light-Infused Living Space With 3D-Printed Elements and Natural Stone Accents

Authors:
Aju Sukumar Sukumaran Thankappan Pillai, Anjali Gopakumar Gopakumar
Light-Infused Living Space With 3D-Printed Elements and Natural Stone Accents

Project in-detail

A seamless integration of 3D-printed elements and natural stone features creates a light-filled retreat that emphasizes energy efficiency and a strong connection to its surroundings, serving as an inviting living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D-printed materials for intricate design elements.
02
Incorporates a reflective water feature to enhance natural light.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame shape for optimal ventilation.
04
Employs a combination of concrete and natural stone for structural integrity.
05
Focuses on biophilic design principles to foster a connection with nature.

## Project Overview

Located in a natural setting, the residential design of "Under the Light" emphasizes the integration of natural light, user experience, and environmental sustainability. The design concept draws inspiration from natural forms, particularly the termite mound, reflecting an innovative approach to energy efficiency and climate control. Through a series of carefully crafted spaces, the project underscores the significance of light in architecture, fostering a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its surroundings.

## Spatial Organization

The layout is characterized by fluid, organic shapes that adapt to the contours of the landscape, creating a complex but cohesive spatial experience. Central to the design is the living area, which features a skylight that illuminates the space while housing a reflective pool that enhances both ambiance and visual connectivity to the outdoor environment. Bedrooms and bathrooms are strategically placed to ensure privacy while maintaining views and natural light through thoughtfully positioned windows.

## Material Selection

Sustainable material choices are central to the design's integrity and aesthetic. Concrete provides structural durability, while extensive use of glass allows for ample natural light and views. Natural stone elements add warmth and earthy tones, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. Wood accents offer additional comfort and a connection to nature. Notably, 3D-printed components introduce intricate textures inspired by termite mounds, enhancing the project’s sustainability by optimizing material usage and allowing for customized forms.

## Interaction with Natural Light

A key feature of the design is its interaction with natural light, promoting a dynamic atmosphere throughout the day. Skylights and carefully designed openings draw light into crucial areas, fostering a vibrant indoor environment and facilitating natural ventilation. Reflective water features, such as the pool, serve as secondary light sources, enriching the interior with an ever-changing play of light and shadow that influences the emotional experience of the inhabitants.

## Environmental Considerations

The design incorporates several sustainable features aimed at minimizing environmental impact. Natural airflow systems leverage openings in the living area and roof to enhance thermal comfort through passive cooling strategies, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, the structure’s compact form is designed to minimize disruption to the site, aligning with ecological principles and promoting energy efficiency throughout the year.

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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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