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Limestone-Crafted Spaces Highlighting Light and Shadow Dynamics

Authors:
Harshitha Kommi, Anshika Sharma
Limestone-Crafted Spaces Highlighting Light and Shadow Dynamics
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Crafted from limestone, the design utilizes strategic light placement to create dynamic shadows and inviting spaces, culminating in a serene residential atmosphere that fosters a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a textured limestone façade that enhances light interaction.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard designed for optimal sunlight capture.
03
Utilizes an extensive study of sunlight paths for window placement.
04
Features a layout that balances private and communal areas effectively.
05
Creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the interiors.

The project "Home of Shadows 'Chaand'" is located in Bassenthwaite, focusing on the relationship between light and shadow through inspiration from the moon. The design draws upon the lunar presence to create spaces that reflect this ethereal quality. The goal is to establish environments that are pleasant and functional, encouraging interaction with both the interior and exterior landscapes.

Materiality and Texture

Limestone is the primary material used, shaping the architecture's character. Its textured surface reacts to changing sunlight throughout the day. This material enhances the visual quality of the building, deepening shadows while brightening illuminated areas. The use of limestone adds a natural component to the structure that complements its surroundings.

Natural Light Integration

The design incorporates a careful study of the sun's path, allowing for windows to be placed strategically. This planning enables natural light to enter various spaces effectively, improving the environment's overall feel. Skylights are also used to increase light penetration, ensuring that even darker areas gain the warmth of sunlight. The result is an interior that feels bright and welcoming.

Courtyard Design

The courtyard stands as a central feature of the design, maximizing sunlight and creating a bond with the outdoor area. It serves as a place for gathering and relaxation, promoting a sense of calm. The dynamic quality of light and shadow within this space enhances the experience, fostering a connection between indoor activities and the natural world.

In a final detail, light plays across the limestone surface, creating shifting patterns on the interior walls. This interaction embodies the essence of the moon’s influence, offering a daily changing canvas for those within the space.

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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
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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