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Natural Light Through Perforated Screens and Warm Timber in a Healing Community Space

Author:
Andrea Fernanda Bautista Machado
Natural Light Through Perforated Screens and Warm Timber in a Healing Community Space

Project in-detail

Perforated screens filter natural light into a serene interior adorned with warm timber, creating a supportive environment for individuals navigating the challenges of terminal illness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated screens are integrated to optimize natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Warm timber finishes create a calming and inviting interior atmosphere.
03
A bent A-frame design enhances structural stability and visual interest.
04
Natural stone pathways connect reflective gardens throughout the site.
05
Adaptive spaces accommodate various therapeutic and communal activities.

## Overview

Located in a serene environment conducive to reflection, the design aims to create a supportive atmosphere for individuals facing terminal illness. The project draws inspiration from Kathleen Dowling Singh's interpretation of the stages of understanding death, emphasizing the need for a space that nurtures emotional and psychological well-being. Through carefully considered spatial arrangements and thoughtful material choices, the intent is to facilitate personal journeys towards acceptance and peace.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout features a central hub that encourages interaction, surrounded by landscaped gardens and secluded areas that offer opportunities for solitude and contemplation. Winding pathways lead through these gardens, guiding individuals along a meditative journey. The integration of communal spaces fosters connection, emphasizing social interaction as a crucial aspect of the healing process. Circular seating arrangements promote dialogue, facilitating shared experiences among visitors.

### Materiality and Light

The selection of materials is integral to the project's overall ethos of healing. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while warm-toned timber introduces a tactile warmth, establishing a connection with nature. Natural stone elements in seating and pathways offer grounding, while expansive glass features allow light to play across interiors, highlighting the dynamic relationship between presence and absence. Perforated screens and strategically positioned windows create evolving light patterns throughout the day, further enhancing the immersive experience. The design also incorporates significant greenery and water features, reinforcing the connection to nature and promoting tranquility.

### Sustainability Considerations

While specific sustainable practices are not detailed, the use of natural materials and the thoughtful integration of the architecture within its landscape reflect a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. This approach underscores the design's aim to harmoniously connect individuals with their surroundings, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging and peace.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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