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Natural Light and Green Roofs Enhanced by Trapezoidal Form and Wood Cladding

Author:
Bradford Kelley
Natural Light and Green Roofs Enhanced by Trapezoidal Form and Wood Cladding

Project in-detail

Utilizing trapezoidal forms and extensive wood cladding, the design integrates natural light and green roofs to create a functional community space that fosters interaction and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Trapezoidal building forms enhance natural ventilation and optimize views.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber improves structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a unique texture and enhance fire resistance.
04
Integrated green roofs support biodiversity and aid in stormwater management.
05
Central communal areas are designed to facilitate diverse social interactions.

The architectural project Gêmeos features a pair of interconnected structures designed to facilitate community engagement and interaction within a thoughtfully curated environment. This architectural design embodies the concept of “twins,” symbolically representing duality and connectivity, echoing the intent to create spaces that foster social relationships. The layout integrates distinct building volumes that promote both private and communal activities, allowing for versatile usage while respecting the surrounding landscape.

Unique Approaches to Design Gêmeos exhibits innovative design approaches that set it apart from conventional projects. The orientation of the buildings is strategically positioned to capture optimal natural light and views, enhancing the spatial experience for occupants. The combination of angular forms and varying rooflines contributes to a dynamic silhouette, breaking away from traditional linear designs. The use of sustainable materials plays a critical role in the project, with concrete providing structural integrity, while extensive glass facades ensure transparency and connectivity with the exterior environment. Wood cladding softens the starkness of concrete, adding warmth and a human scale to the structure.

The incorporation of green roofs serves multiple purposes: they contribute to insulation, support biodiversity, and manage stormwater effectively. The landscape design is integrated throughout the project, with outdoor terraces and gardens serving as extensions of the living spaces, encouraging interaction with nature. This duality of built and natural environments is a central aspect of the architectural vision, allowing users to experience a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

Functional Considerations and Spatial Configuration The spatial organization of the buildings prioritizes both communal areas and private quarters. Centralized gathering spaces are designed to facilitate social interactions, while private sections provide an opportunity for personal retreat. This arrangement is supported by an open floor plan that encourages flexibility and adaptability to various functions. The design incorporates pathways that guide movement and encourage exploration of the outdoor surroundings.

Furthermore, sustainability is woven into the fabric of Gêmeos with features such as rainwater harvesting systems and energy-efficient practices. These considerations not only reduce the carbon footprint but also ensure the longevity of the structures in their environment. The project exemplifies a harmonious balance between functionality, community, and environmental stewardship, effectively addressing modern architectural challenges.

For a comprehensive understanding of Gêmeos, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation to appreciate the intricate details and thoughtful design strategies employed throughout this initiative.

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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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