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Lightwell Integration and Textured Concrete In A Jerusalem Residence

Author:
思言 邓
Lightwell Integration and Textured Concrete In A Jerusalem Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing carefully designed light wells and textured concrete, the residence in Jerusalem establishes a harmonious link between its spiritual environment and intimate living spaces, serving as a contemplative home for a religious couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates triangular openings that optimize natural light and enhance views.
02
Using textured concrete, the façade establishes a unique tactile experience.
03
A carefully integrated water feature complements the landscape and symbolizes purification.
04
Strategic landscaping with native flora is designed for low maintenance and environmental harmony.
05
The design prioritizes communal space while fostering private areas for contemplation.

### Overview
Situated in Jerusalem, the residence entitled "Per Aspera ad Astra" has been designed to reflect the spiritual and environmental context of the area, catering specifically to a religious couple. The project aims to create a harmonious relationship between the inhabitants and their surroundings, incorporating features that promote spiritual reflection and a profound connection to nature. The architectural design weaves together the elements of light and shadow to embody themes of introspection and serenity.

### Spatial Organization
The layout reflects an organic flow that is responsive to the site's topography. Central to the design is a triangular floor plan that optimizes views of the landscape, including the Vatican, emphasizing the religious significance of the location. Key spaces include a communal living room that encourages interaction while also inviting moments of solitude, as well as private areas such as the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, which are thoughtfully integrated to foster both intimacy and connection. Outdoor spaces, including a pool and garden, are designed as extensions of the interior, offering settings for leisure and contemplation amidst native vegetation.

### Material Selection and Environmental Connection
Material selection is purposeful, drawing from local resources to cultivate a spiritual atmosphere. Textured concrete forms create reflective surfaces that engage with light, while glass openings enable uninterrupted views and natural light influx. The use of natural stone aligns with the local geology, providing tactile comfort, and wood elements introduce warmth into the living environment. The design maintains an earthy and neutral palette, ensuring visual integration with the surrounding desert landscape. The manipulation of light through strategically placed openings and light wells further enhances the spiritual quality of the residence, fostering a dynamic interplay of illumination throughout the interior spaces.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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