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Lithic Forms Interwoven with Tranquil Green Pathways in a Bog Ecosystem

Authors:
Rhett Heuer-rubalcava, Ruby Kim
Lithic Forms Interwoven with Tranquil Green Pathways in a Bog Ecosystem

Project in-detail

Set within a bog ecosystem, the design intertwines heavy lithic materials with wooden pathways, creating a tranquil space that encourages exploration and engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrated pathways allow visitors to navigate through the bog without disturbing the ecosystem.
02
Parking is strategically placed underground to free surface space for recreational use.
03
Curated viewpoints frame moments of quiet reflection within the natural landscape.
04
Heavy lithic materials contrast with the gentle terrain, providing a strong architectural presence.
05
The design promotes a flexible range of activities, from exhibitions to serene contemplation.

The Knoll exists as a careful response to the unique setting of a bog ecosystem. It invites visitors to connect with the region's ecological features while preserving the landscape's natural character. The design centers around making subtle connections to nature that encourage a deep and engaging experience.

Circulatory Paths

A network of narrow wooden pathways weaves through the terrain, guiding visitors on a journey of exploration. These paths invite people to slow down and interact with the plants and wildlife of the bog. By choosing to make minimal changes to the environment, the paths enhance the natural beauty of the area while ensuring it remains accessible.

Subterranean Parking

Parking facilities are placed underground, freeing up surface area for the park. This approach improves visitors' experiences by increasing space for various activities like exhibitions, playgrounds, and quiet areas for reflection. The flexibility of these spaces enriches the relationship between people, nature, and architecture, creating a welcoming environment for all.

Spatial Dynamics

The arrangement of spaces reflects natural processes found in the earth. The design carves through the landscape, allowing visitors to experience a range of views. Each viewpoint is chosen to encourage moments of peace within the lively scenery. This layout fosters an appreciation for the bond between constructed elements and the surrounding wilderness.

Materiality

The structure relies on heavier lithic materials, providing a solid and grounded presence in the soft landscape. This choice creates a pleasing contrast while maintaining a connection to the geology of the site. The careful selection of materials plays a vital role in the design’s intent, promoting a respectful relationship between human presence and the natural environment.

Panoramic views frame the landscape, each inviting moments of quiet reflection and deeper awareness of the bog's unique elements.

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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

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