Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Mirrored Entry and Frosted Glass Create Harmony Above the Pond

Author:
Jeffrey Troutman
Mirrored Entry and Frosted Glass Create Harmony Above the Pond

Project in-detail

A mirrored entry reflects the surrounding landscape through frosted glass, creating a seamless connection with nature in a structure designed for meditation and mindful reflection above a tranquil pond.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored surfaces at the entrance enhance natural light and reflections.
02
Frosted glass panels create privacy while maintaining visibility to nature.
03
The cabin's design allows for dual functionality as a meditation space and pavilion.
04
Elevated position above the pond fosters a unique interaction with water.
05
Structural timber frame ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight appearance.

The design "śūnyatā" is situated near a peaceful pond, functioning as a meditative dwelling that captures the essence of emptiness. It is meant to encourage mindfulness and reflection, drawing the occupant into a deeper connection with nature. The overall composition of the structure conveys a sense of calmness, encouraging a spiritual interaction with the environment.

Site Approach

The journey to the cabin begins on a boardwalk that shifts the perspective of the visitor, focusing attention on the building ahead. This careful transition is designed to prepare users for the peacefulness found within. The layout extends over the pond, creating an immersive environment that allows the surrounding nature to be experienced without interruption.

Interior Experience

Flower essences are strategically placed at the entrance on a mirrored surface, which reflects light onto frosted glass panels inside. This thoughtful design enhances the interior experience, as the play of light and color shifts throughout the day. It creates a tranquil atmosphere, inviting quiet contemplation while blending with the natural elements.

Structural Versatility

Flexibility is a key aspect of the design, allowing the cabin to serve both as a meditation space and an open pavilion. This adaptability increases its usability for both individual practice and group gatherings. Elevated above the pond, the structure emphasizes its connection to water and nature, creating a fluid interaction between the interior and the exterior.

Material and Aesthetic

Materials were chosen to meet both functional and aesthetic needs. Wooden siding boards are coated with a weather-resistant white wash, while a structural select timber frame provides strength. The foundation is made of concrete masonry units, ensuring stability. Galvanized steel flashing gutters help manage water drainage, and AC grade plywood is used for interior surfaces, giving a polished look.

An overhang enhances the roofline, providing visual interest while offering protection from the elements. The combination of open and enclosed spaces allows natural light to filter in, creating a calm and inviting environment suited for meditation and reflection. The design encourages users to engage deeply with their surroundings, fostering a sense of peace and tranquility.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy