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Natural Light and Functional Layout in a Grounded Coastal Residence

Author:
Mei Li
Natural Light and Functional Layout in a Grounded Coastal Residence

Project in-detail

With a focus on maximizing natural light and integrating a functional layout, the residence establishes a deep connection to its coastal environment while providing a comfortable living space for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed openings in the bent A-frame design.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against the coastal climate.
03
The layout features an open floor plan that promotes easy flow between living spaces.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural support, contributing to sustainability.
05
The project is designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, enhancing its natural setting.

The House of Earth and Sea is a residential structure that emphasizes its connection to the environment. Located in a carefully chosen landscape, the design aims to blend indoor and outdoor spaces into a cohesive living experience. The concept is centered on themes such as nature and belonging, creating a home that resonates with its natural surroundings.

Design Concept

The design focuses on harmonizing with the landscape, creating a dwelling that fits comfortably within its context. The house features a layered facade, with both vertical and horizontal elements that guide the viewer’s sight while adding visual depth. This method enhances the structure’s appearance and fosters a strong relationship with the outdoor environment.

Spatial Organization

The elevations and sections, labeled A and B, showcase a well-thought-out layout that balances functionality and privacy. The arrangement of rooms allows for smooth movement and caters to diverse living needs. Each section highlights how natural light and ventilation are taken into account, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere. This careful consideration helps the dwelling adapt to its climate.

Connection to Nature

A notable aspect of the House of Earth and Sea is its strong connection to nature. The design encourages the outdoors to become part of daily life, framing views and allowing daylight to flood the interiors. This relationship improves the quality of living and promotes a sense of comfort, all while reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.

Material Considerations

While the presentation does not detail specific materials, emphasis is placed on the architectural form and spatial dynamics rather than on material selection. This approach gives the builder the flexibility to choose elements that support the overall vision without overshadowing the focus on environmental integration. The goal is to create a meaningful experience rooted in natural elements.

The careful positioning of the house allows for maximum sunlight throughout the day, enhancing the indoor living experience while creating shaded outdoor areas that invite relaxation.

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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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