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Masonry Heritage with Modern Aluminum Roofing for Community Engagement

Author:
Hristiyana Vassileva
Masonry Heritage with Modern Aluminum Roofing for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Constructed with preserved 1850 masonry and a modern aluminum roof, the teahouse serves as a community hub dedicated to tea culture and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses preserved masonry from 1850 to connect to local history.
02
Incorporates a modern aluminum roof for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Features designated areas for tea-making workshops to promote cultural practices.
04
Includes a terrace that connects the indoor space with the outdoors.
05
Accommodates visitors with a guest room, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Teahouse Ozolini is a unique space that blends history with modern design. Located in a region known for its tea culture, the teahouse serves as a community gathering spot for tea enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The overall design brings together elements of the past and present, creating an inviting environment for relaxation and social interaction.

Materials

Old masonry from 1850 is an essential part of the structure, connecting it deeply to its historical roots. This material helps tell the story of the teahouse, giving it a sense of authenticity that resonates with visitors. The preserved walls remind everyone of the long history of tea-making traditions in the area, enriching the experience.



In contrast, the roof is made from aluminum sandwich panels. These modern materials provide vital support while also being energy efficient. The panels are lightweight, making installation easier and faster. Their insulating properties contribute to a comfortable environment inside. This blend of traditional and contemporary materials speaks to careful planning and respect for both the past and present.



The layout of Teahouse Ozolini encourages interaction and community engagement. The ground floor features a welcoming entrance and a spacious sitting area, along with dedicated spaces for tea-making workshops, a kitchen, and a tea-drying area. Each of these areas is arranged to facilitate social gatherings, reflecting the teahouse’s purpose as a place for cultural exchange. A terrace offers an opportunity to enjoy tea outdoors, enhancing the overall experience.



On the first floor, guests find a room, toilet, shower, and double space. This thoughtful arrangement ensures visitors have essential comforts during their stay. It contributes to a welcoming atmosphere, making the teahouse more than just a place to enjoy tea; it becomes a home away from home for many.



The blending of historical and modern features creates a cohesive overall appearance. Each exterior wall showcases the connection between the old masonry and the new roof. The design details, such as the placement of windows, allow light to flow in and connect the inside with the surroundings. Teahouse Ozolini successfully balances the past and the present, creating a space where culture and community thrive.

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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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