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Natural Light and Greenery in a Wooden Community Space

Author:
Dario Ruotolo
Natural Light and Greenery in a Wooden Community Space

Project in-detail

With its focus on abundant natural light and the integration of greenery, the design creates a sustainable workspace that fosters collaboration and addresses the emotional needs of its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a design inspired by the organization of an anthill to enhance teamwork.
02
Features extensive greenery to improve air quality and create an inviting atmosphere.
03
Uses wood as a primary material to absorb CO2 and promote sustainability.
04
Designed with large social areas to foster collaboration among occupants.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed windows for a healthier workspace.

The recent design focuses on important themes related to workplace dynamics, particularly feelings of loneliness and the challenges of leadership. Set in a contemporary urban environment, the design aims to create a space that enhances collaboration and emotional connections among users. By drawing inspiration from the organization of an anthill, the project underscores the significance of community and interaction in a productive workspace.

Spatial Organization

The layout incorporates large social areas that encourage teamwork and foster relationships among occupants. This design choice aims to improve communication and create an environment where collaboration can thrive. By moving away from isolated workstations, the design prioritizes shared spaces that promote a sense of belonging and connection among individuals.

Integration of Nature

The presence of trees and plants is crucial in shaping the overall atmosphere. The project includes ample greenery, which enhances the work environment and provides a more inviting space. The integration of natural elements helps to reduce the sterile feeling often found in office settings, reinforcing the connection between nature and human experience in daily work life.

Material Considerations

Wooden structures are a key aspect of the design, known for their ability to absorb CO2 and improve indoor air quality. However, the project also addresses the environmental impact of wood sourcing, recognizing the serious issue of deforestation. The design promotes the idea of supporting reforestation initiatives, striving for an approach that aligns material use with sustainability.

Natural light plays an important role in the overall experience of the interior spaces. Large windows allow sunlight to fill the area, optimizing energy use and connecting users with the outdoors. This relationship with nature is seen as essential for both productivity and emotional well-being, encouraging a healthier work environment for all occupants.

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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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