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Natural Light Atrium and Concrete Facade in Cohesive Community Living

Authors:
Aleksandra Kramnik, Adrianna Lenkowska
Natural Light Atrium and Concrete Facade in Cohesive Community Living

Project in-detail

Combining a central atrium structure with large glazing and a cast concrete facade, the design creates a harmonious environment for multi-generational living while prioritizing energy efficiency and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Atrium design enhances natural light and community interaction.
02
Movable ceiling panels regulate sunlight and reduce greenhouse effect.
03
Facades made from textured formwork with unheated boards.
04
No direct windows in living areas to optimize thermal efficiency.
05
Cast reinforced concrete structure provides durability and stability.

The architectural design in the district of Waterloo responds to the challenges of living in a space dominated by tall residential buildings. It addresses social instability and the need for improved urban organization. The result is a project that not only provides homes but also enhances community life. The design centers around a structured layout with clearly defined zones, allowing for both individual privacy and social interaction, which is especially important for families.

Concept and Zoning

The design divides the building into various zones: private, semi-private, semi-public, and public. This thoughtful zoning creates spaces where residents can connect with each other while still enjoying privacy. A central atrium links these areas, encouraging interaction and a sense of belonging. The setup supports communal living, which can be beneficial for multi-generational families looking for shared spaces while respecting individual needs.

Natural Light and Internal Configuration

Inside, the layout consists of two residential quarters, an atrium, and an inner courtyard. Maximizing natural light is a key focus. Large glass areas let sunlight brighten the living spaces, positively impacting residents' well-being. The atrium's ceiling includes movable panels to control the amount of sunlight coming in. This feature not only helps in managing temperature but also enhances comfort during different times of the year.

Materials and Construction

The building uses cast reinforced concrete, ensuring it is strong and durable. Support walls are strategically placed around the perimeter and rest on foundation benches, providing stability. The facade is created with unheated boards in the formwork, giving it a unique texture that fits well with the nearby architecture. This choice of materials promotes a practical yet visually interesting style.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Energy efficiency is another important part of the design. The absence of direct windows in living areas limits heat loss, which helps to reduce energy use and the need for air conditioning. Such considerations align with current goals of sustainable living, making the homes more environmentally friendly. The neutral design of the facade is intended to blend into various urban settings, contributing to a respectful approach to the surrounding landscape.

The project is a balanced blend of community focus and sustainable thinking. It creates a living space that values natural light and encourages social connections among residents. Attention to detail in the layout and materials fosters an environment that meets the practical needs of modern urban life while respecting the local context.

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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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