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Limestone Facade Enhances Light and Shadow in a Tranquil Residence

Authors:
Harshitha Kommi, Anshika Sharma
Limestone Facade Enhances Light and Shadow in a Tranquil Residence

Project in-detail

A limestone façade captures the dynamic interplay of light and shadow, creating a serene environment that enhances the living experience in a residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Limestone façade enhances light interaction throughout the day.
02
Central courtyard designed to maximize natural light entry.
03
Strategic window placement captures optimal sunlight exposure.
04
Spaces organized to promote both community and solitude.
05
Interplay of light and shadow creates a calming atmosphere.

The *Home of Shadows ‘Chaand’* is located in Bassenthwaite and serves as a residence that reflects the beauty of the moon through thoughtful design. The concept centers on the relationship between light and shadow, creating an atmosphere that connects with the natural surroundings. This approach not only enhances the living experience but also establishes a deep appreciation for the shifting qualities of light throughout the day.

Concept and Light Integration

The design is shaped by careful analysis of solar patterns, which guide the positioning of windows and skylights. This allows natural light to fill the interior spaces, promoting a warm and inviting feel. The central courtyard plays a key role in fostering this light, offering a refreshing space that welcomes both light and air. By prioritizing these elements, the home becomes a place where the changing sunlight creates different moods and experiences as the day progresses.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the home is organized with a focus on functionality and serenity. Spaces such as the study, dining hall, and kitchen are thoughtfully arranged to encourage interaction and flow. In addition, areas for yoga and relaxation are designed to promote peace and contemplation. This arrangement creates a balance between private and communal areas, allowing residents to find both connection and solitude within the space.

Materiality

Limestone is the main material chosen for construction, adding a natural quality to the design. The texture and color of the limestone complement the overall theme of light and shadow. When sunlight hits the façade, it creates varied effects, highlighting the beauty of the stone throughout the day. This choice not only meets practical needs but also enhances the visual appeal of the home, making it an integral part of the overall experience.

The design celebrates the presence of light as a key component of daily life. Each element—whether it be the flow of spaces, the quality of materials, or the interplay of light—contributes to an environment that is both functional and reflective of the natural world.

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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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