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Moonlight Reflection Enhancing Creativity in a High-Performance Glazing Retreat

Authors:
Sila Yilmaz, Pedro Javier Bermudez Fernández
Moonlight Reflection Enhancing Creativity in a High-Performance Glazing Retreat

Project in-detail

Capturing moonlight through high-performance glazing, this retreat in the Higher Vosges serves as an inspiring haven for a writing couple, seamlessly blending comfort and creativity with its strategic connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates moonlight reflection from the adjacent lake into the living space.
02
L-shaped courtyard enhances both privacy and outdoor engagement.
03
High-performance glazing provides optimal light control and thermal efficiency.
04
Design responds to seasonal weather patterns, enhancing sensory experiences.
05
Strategically positioned windows optimize daylight throughout the day.

LUNA is a home designed for a writing couple, located in the picturesque area of Higher Vosges, France, near Lake Gérardmer. The design focuses on creating a space that enhances creativity and connects deeply with the surrounding landscape. Built to serve as both a living space and a source of inspiration, the home's layout is guided by its context, harmonizing indoor life with nature outside.

Spatial Organization

The layout is intentionally crafted to maximize the flow of natural light throughout the home. Living spaces are arranged according to the sun's path, which allows for ample daylight, especially during warm summer months. This thoughtful arrangement not only provides comfort but also supports the couple’s writing practices. Areas for work and gathering blend seamlessly, encouraging interaction and inspiration.

Material Considerations

While the presentation does not specify all materials used, the design suggests the incorporation of high-performance glazing for the windows. This choice supports the entry of natural light while managing heat and glare effectively. Each window is designed to be double-glazed, which enhances insulation and keeps the interior comfortable. The presence of adjustable blinds offers flexibility, allowing residents to control the amount of light they wish to have in their space.

Integration of Light and Environment

A notable aspect of LUNA is how it takes advantage of both sunlight and moonlight. The central part of the home captures moonlight reflected from the nearby lake, creating a calming atmosphere at night. This unique feature promotes a gentle interplay of light that changes with each phase of the moon. It encourages a connection to the night and enhances the emotional depth of the living environment, which is beneficial for the creative work being done inside.

Acoustic and Sensory Experience

The design also considers the auditory environment created by local weather patterns, such as the rain. The sound of rain contributes to a peaceful setting, enhancing the reflective mood that suits writing. The experience of fresh scents during and after rainfall adds another layer to the sensory environment. Together, these elements foster a backdrop that nurtures creativity and supports a focused mindset for the couple.

At night, the home's thoughtful design translates natural light into a calming interior experience, enabling the couple to engage deeply with their surroundings while pursuing their writing ambitions.

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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
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