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Malleable Spaces That Embrace Nature Through Permeable Boundaries

Author:
Jacob Southard
Malleable Spaces That Embrace Nature Through Permeable Boundaries

Project in-detail

Malleable spatial boundaries interact with the forest environment, allowing natural light to flow in and creating a tranquil retreat focused on mindfulness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes malleable boundaries for flexible spatial configurations.
02
Incorporates large windows that frame forest views and maximize natural light.
03
Emphasizes a connection to nature with permeable indoor-outdoor transitions.
04
Features a designated meditation space that minimizes distraction.
05
Adapts to daily rhythms with movable elements that encourage engagement.

"Boundless" aims to enhance mindfulness through its design while situated in a forested setting. It focuses on the connection between the mind and body, creating a calm space for meditation and reflection. The project encourages a strong bond between occupants and the natural environment. Through careful design, boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas are softened, creating a harmonious living experience.

Conceptual Framework
This design is rooted in mindfulness, aiming to foster an awareness of thoughts and feelings in the present moment. The architecture invites nature inside, creating an experience where the outdoor elements seamlessly blend with the indoor space. This connection enhances the occupants' engagement with their surroundings, supporting a stronger relationship with the natural world.

Spatial Organization
The design incorporates flexibility to enhance the user experience. Spaces can be modified to meet individual needs and emotional states. Manual systems within the architecture promote interaction and adaptability, especially in the meditation area. Features that conceal certain elements reinforce the purpose of contemplation, making it a space for solitude and peace.

Environmental Integration
Sensitivity to the site context is critical for "Boundless." The scale and dimensions of the design align well with the forest nearby. The project encourages engagement with the natural flow of the day. Features like sliding doors and movable furniture allow users to adjust their space according to their daily activities, promoting a greater awareness of time and their environment.

Material Considerations
Though specific materials are not detailed, the design suggests an intention to create a calming atmosphere, aligning with the overall objective of mindfulness and presence. Simplicity and clarity in the forms contribute to a peaceful environment. The spatial arrangements encourage a retreat from distractions, supporting the essential concept of the space as a place for reflection.

A significant design element is a large window that frames the view of the surrounding forest, drawing in natural light and creating a visual connection between the interior and the outside world. This feature invites the beauty of nature into the living space, reinforcing the connection between the architecture and its environment.

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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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