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Natural Light and Community Focus Highlighting White Concrete and Glass in a Harmonious Guesthouse Design

Author:
Yeji Hyun
Natural Light and Community Focus Highlighting White Concrete and Glass in a Harmonious Guesthouse Design

Project in-detail

Emphasizing expansive glass façades and the warmth of natural wood, the design fosters an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene guesthouse that invites community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guesthouse incorporates a custom bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light penetration.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both an aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against weather elements.
03
Large glass panels create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a connection with nature.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively for structural integrity while maintaining a warm interior ambiance.
05
Community-focused spaces are intentionally designed to promote social interactions among guests and visitors.
The architectural project known as "OLHADA," translates to "Guesthouse through the eyeline," embodies a thoughtful approach to creating spaces that encourage introspection and interpersonal connection. Situated within a serene environment, this architecture seamlessly blends contemporary design with functional living, presenting a refuge for both guests and the local community. The project's essence lies in its ability to stimulate engagement while maintaining comfort through its spatial organization and material choices.

At its core, OLHADA represents an exploration of how architecture can influence human experiences. The design prioritizes comfort and connectivity, not only among its users but also with the surrounding natural landscape. The layout of the guesthouse is carefully articulated, featuring distinct volumes arranged to promote interaction without compromising privacy. This arrangement allows for a fluid transition between different areas, ensuring that spaces can serve multiple purposes throughout the day while accommodating social gatherings or quiet retreats.

Materiality is an essential aspect of OLHADA, with a palette that includes white concrete, natural wood, glass, brick, and metal. The use of white concrete serves as a structural backbone, providing a modern aesthetic while also being environmentally considerate. Natural wood adds warmth to the design, seamlessly integrating living areas with the outdoor environment. Expansive glass windows create transparency, drawing in natural light and offering views that enhance the connection to nature. Selective use of brick in lower levels introduces texture and a historical context that enriches the user experience. Additionally, metal accents contribute to the overall durability and modern appeal of the design.

One of the most notable features of the project is its innovative spatial configuration. The architects have created a dynamic interplay of horizontal and vertical elements, allowing guests to experience the space from various perspectives. This thoughtful arrangement facilitates visual connections and a sense of openness, which is crucial for a guesthouse aiming to foster community and belonging. Circulation pathways are intentionally crafted to ensure that movement within the space feels natural and inviting, making it easy for users to navigate between communal areas such as the olive tasting room and private quarters.

Moreover, OLHADA places great emphasis on emotional and experiential qualities within its design. Bedrooms are thoughtfully designed to provide a sense of tranquility, employing balanced proportions and soft tones that promote relaxation. Natural light plays a strategic role in these spaces, enhancing the overall comfort level and connecting the inhabitants with the natural rhythm of day and night.

Unique design approaches evident in OLHADA include the strategic use of lines of sight, which allow spaces to visually engage with one another. This design philosophy encourages a sense of exploration and interaction among users while reevaluating the conventional boundaries of interiors and exteriors. The basement level further enriches the user experience, housing spaces designed for connection and reflection, fostering familial ties and storytelling through careful integration of historical elements.

OLHADA stands as a compelling example of how architectural design can effectively create environments that enhance user engagement while maintaining a strong relationship with the natural landscape. The commitment to thoughtful spatial organization, coupled with a carefully selected material palette, makes this project a noteworthy addition to contemporary architecture. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into architectural plans, sections, and designs that contributed to this project, an exploration of the detailed presentation of OLHADA is highly encouraged. Engaging with these elements will provide a fuller understanding of the innovative architectural ideas that shaped this unique guesthouse.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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