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Mirrored Houses With Hybrid Beams and Integrated Bat Nesting Sites

Author:
Rodion Kosmin
Mirrored Houses With Hybrid Beams and Integrated Bat Nesting Sites

Project in-detail

Constructed with mirrored symmetry and elevated on hybrid beams, the design incorporates bat nesting sites within its sloped roofs while fostering both communal and private living spaces for families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored design enhances symmetry and visual harmony in the lakeside environment.
02
Elevated structure on hybrid beams allows for flexibility in future modifications.
03
Pentagonal workshop shape contrasts with the rectangular houses, promoting unique spatial dynamics.
04
Integrated bat nesting sites show a commitment to local biodiversity.
05
Two-story living room with a gallery connects upper and lower levels effectively.

The design of the twin houses and their integrated studio showcases practical living arrangements that blend functionality with environmental awareness. Positioned by a lake, the project features two mirrored houses that are symmetrically aligned, angled at 30 degrees to harmonize with the contour of the land. This thoughtful approach facilitates both communal gathering and individual privacy in a shared living environment.

Layout and Connectivity

At the center of the design is a long hallway that connects the primary living areas with the workshop. This hallway leads into an open living room on one side and a kitchen on the other, creating a direct path to the summer terrace. Toward the southern end of each house, the master bedrooms and bathrooms are located to provide necessary separation. The living room is notable for its two-story height and includes a gallery that overlooks the main area, connecting the two levels visually and spatially.

Structural Organization

The southern house occupies the site of an existing old house and barn, while the studio is positioned over the newly designated barn foundations. All buildings are elevated from the ground, supported by hybrid beams. This approach allows for a light structure while maintaining solid support.

The design incorporates a raster layout with gaps of 1.5 to 3 meters. These dimensions have been adjusted for the thickness of structural components, leading to measurements of 1.75 and 3.5 meters. This careful planning creates a spacious feel throughout the hallways and rooms. The workshop has a distinct pentagonal shape that contrasts with the rectangular forms of the houses.

Environmental Integration

Attention to the environment plays a significant role in the design. The roofs slope toward the inner yard, providing a barrier against strong winds from the north and west. At the same time, the orientation allows for sunlight to warm the outdoor spaces. The design also recognizes the importance of protecting these outdoor areas by suggesting the addition of pergolas that would mimic the roof style.

An interesting detail is the inclusion of bat nesting sites within the roof structure, specifically above the living room. This feature demonstrates a commitment to local wildlife, allowing nature to coexist with the living environment.

The overall design connects personal and communal spaces in a functional manner, emphasizing light and openness while providing comfort and shelter. Each element contributes to a balanced living experience that respects both the residents and their surroundings.

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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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